The Perfectors

Episode 21: A Good Bye Jun 14, 2021

On Episode 21 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down and do something they've never done before on the podcast...say goodbye for now. After over five years of podcasting, the sister-cohosts are putting away their mics with both great sadness (because endings are hard), but also great joy and excitement (because new beginnings are beautiful!). Listen in as they dig into what the Mama Bear Dares / Perfectors podcast community has meant to them, the changing "podscape," and life's next steps. This goodbye is one filled with deep gratitude and great confidence that those who have listened over the years will continue to be love-spreaders, peace-makers, truth-tellers, justice-seekers and perfectors of what is right and good for all!

Episode 20: Perfector of Youth Development Sarah Audelo May 31, 2021

On Episode 20 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Sarah Audelo, the executive director of The Alliance for Youth Action, a nationwide network of organizations building political power of young people and the premier youth vote vehicle in the United States. The women speak enthusiastically about the hope and energy of Generation Z and the ways in which we all can develop talent in our youth and empower and support them as they spend their energy on the ground. If you’re looking for a hopeful and joyful conversation, this is the episode for you! For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.

Episode 19: The Breakdown (Nuance) May 24, 2021

On Episode 19 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the importance of nuance in examining headlines. They zero in on the perceived “labor shortage” and look at the issue with a nod to nuance, encouraging listeners to apply this lens to everything they consume. The truth is always complicated and, as Perfectors, the co-hosts encourage listeners to keep a nuanced view of the lives we live. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors' website.

Episode 18: Perfector of Healthcare Advocacy Laura Packard May 17, 2021

On Episode 18 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Laura Packard, a health care activist and political commentator. She is the founder of Health Care Voices, a non-profit grassroots organization for adults with serious medical conditions and the Executive Director of Get America Covered, a group that promotes increased health coverage. For Laura, her work is personal. As she was fighting her own battle with cancer, she was also fighting her own U.S. Senator and President to keep her health insurance. She shares her wisdom, her knowledge, and her advocacy in a fantastic interview that will inspire listeners and give them a better understanding of medical coverage in America. For complete Show Notes, visit the Perfectors website.

Episode 17: Perfector of Fiction Megan Goldin May 10, 2021

On Episode 17 of the Perfector’s Podcast, Tesi sits down with Australian author Megan Goldin to discuss her fantastic book The Night Swim and life as a writer during quarantine. Megan brings a fascinating perspective as the women discuss the state of journalism and the state of democracy across the globe during this time of pandemic. They dive into topics that Megan’s book bring up, such as the treatment of sexual assault victims in the justice system, the #MeToo movement, the power of perspective, and the power of fiction to explore complex systems of power. See more on our website.

Episode 16: The Breakdown (Cancel Culture & the Golden Rule) May 03, 2021

On Episode 16 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the phenomenon of “Cancel Culture” … what it is, why it’s a hot topic, and what it means for people hoping to engage their voice in social and racial justice. It’s a candid conversation with examples of missteps and subsequent apologies, as well as a bit of guidance of how to live and love within “cancel culture” 2021. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfector's website.

Episode 15: Perfector of Possibility Michelle Nunn Apr 26, 2021

On Episode 15 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michelle Nunn, president and CEO of CARE USA, a community-based nonprofit working around the world to improve basic education, increase access to quality healthcare, and expand economic opportunity for all. The women talk about the importance of international aid and humanitarian development, the challenges and joys of defeating poverty and achieving justice, and the endeavor of encouraging hope, dignity, and security for all. Also discussed is what it takes to be a great leader and collaborator. The conversation is informative and motivating. Listen in!

Episode 14: The Breakdown (The Heartbreak of More Violence) Apr 19, 2021

On Episode 14 of The Perfectors Podcast, in light of the continued shootings of Black men at the hands of the police, Tesi and Leslie breakdown the news of the week. As the nation hangs on for the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin for the dealth of George Floyd, the women discuss the power of empathy, the role of white women in a world where Black men call out for their mothers at the brink of death, and the movement to “defund the police." For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.

Episode 13: Perfector of Media Literacy Michelle Ciulla Lipkin Apr 12, 2021

On Episode 13 of The Perfector’s Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, the executive director of NAMLE, a media literacy education association working to help people of all ages across the globe access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication available to them. The women talk about WHY media literacy is crucial to a functioning society and HOW to develop the skills we need to be a responsible consumer (and creator) of the media that surrounds us. It’s a fascinating and timely conversation about responsibility, empathy, and meaning. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfector's website.

Episode 12: The Breakdown (A Lamentation of Gun Culture...Again) Apr 05, 2021

On Episode 12 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie lament American gun culture. The women go to back to basics with facts and vocabulary surrounding guns, dispel common myths and misconceptions, equip listeners with concise arguments, and bring up tangible steps for listeners to deal with the state we find ourselves...again. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors at www.theperfectors.com.

Episode 11: Perfector of Overcoming, Stephanie Thornton Plymale Mar 22, 2021

On Episode 11 of the Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with author, designer, and Perfector of Overcoming, Stephanie Thornton Plymale. The women talk about her incredible childhood and her outstanding memoir, American Daughter. The interview features Stephanie’s experiences within various systems within the US as she explores the past she overcame and the life she has made for herself. It’s a great conversation about a unique childhood, a riveting book, and a phenomenal perfector who survived a tumultuous upbringing and managed to find beauty in the darkest places.

LINKS:

Find out more about The Perfectors

Buy the book, American Daughter

Follow Stephanie on Instagram

Episode 10: The Breakdown (Filibuster & the American Rescue Plan) Mar 15, 2021

On this episode of The Perfectors, Tesi and Leslie take a look at the filibuster and break it down for listeners by taking a peek at its history and analyzing its impact on American life over the years. The women also celebrate their favorite six points of the American Rescue Plan and speak (with stars in their eyes) of their love of functional government and their high hopes for the future. For Show Notes and more of The Perfectors, visit our website.

Episode 9: Perfector of Peace & Boundaries Nedra Glover Tawwab Mar 08, 2021

On Episode 9 of The Perfectors podcast, Tesi sits down with Nedra Glover Tawwab, author of Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself, to talk about her story, her book, and her powerful and important message. Nedra is a perfector at making therapy available to as many people as possible, because having better relationships shouldn't be something afforded to just the privileged. She’s challenging, relatable, and comforting and will delight listeners through her generous advice and brilliant perspective. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.

Episode 8: The Breakdown (Immigration) Feb 28, 2021

On this episode of The Perfectors, Tesi and Leslie take a look at the complex issue of immigration and break it down for listeners by looking back through its long and complicated history. This breakdown episode invites listeners to dive in, wrestle, and learn with the co-hosts in hopes of uncovering the inaccuracies of some of the history we’ve been taught and trying to make sense of today through the lens of where we’ve been. After discussing President Biden’s proposal for immigration reform, the co-hosts end the episode by sharing a few pandemic pleasures and encouraging their community of perfectors to keep learning about the world in order to better by it. For complete Show Notes, visit the Perfectors website.

Episode 7: Perfector of Poetry Kitty O'Meara Feb 22, 2021

On today’s Perfector’s podcast, Tesi sits down with Kitty O’Meara who is a retired teacher, chaplain, and author of the much-celebrated prose poem And the People Stayed Home. Kitty’s viral poem is now a beautifully illustrated children’s book that contains important and much-needed wisdom for us all. Listeners will learn from Kitty’s words and experiences, and will hear her plea to closely examine our individuals lives during this season in search of meaning, purpose, more love, and compassion.

Episode 6: The Breakdown (India) Feb 15, 2021

On today’s breakdown, Leslie and Tesi dive into learning about the massive protests happening in India. Since late last year, farmers and farmworkers in Delhi have been in the streets protesting three farm bills that threaten their livelihood and way of life. Because of the interconnectedness of our global community and because over 250 million people are protesting, the Perfectors co-hosts felt they needed to understand the protests, the government’s response, and the human rights at stake.

Episode 5: Perfector of Public Health Janet Hill Feb 08, 2021

On Episode 6 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Janet Hill, the Chief Operating Officer and Public Information Officer of the Rock Island County Health Department in Illinois. Janet offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at her work as a public health official during a global health crisis. The women talk about the effort to administer vaccines as quickly and fairly as possible, the drumbeat of the pandemic, and the fragility and importance of public health services in America.

Episode 4: Perfector of Financial Equality Ceci Hall Feb 01, 2021

On Episode 4 of The Perfectors, Tesi sits down with Ceci Hall of Humanity Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to continuing the movement inspired by Andrew Yang’s 2020 Presidential Campaign and to making its core ideas a reality, including universal basic income, and HUMAN-centered capitalism. The women talk about the finer points of universal basic income and direct cash relief, and how money needs to get directly to people, not corporations. Ultimately the conversation encourages listeners to be an active part of our democracy.

Episode 3: The Breakdown (The Inauguration) Jan 25, 2021

On today's episode of The Perfectors Podcast, Leslie and Tesi continue reveling in their joy over the inauguration of the 46th president. Discussion ranges from reactions to the ceremony itself to President Biden's speech to the first days of the Biden-Harris administration. The co-hosts end the episode by answering listener questions.

The Breakdown: When major events happen—or when we want to take some time to connect with our listeners—we release a breakdown episode that covers everything from current events to what we’re reading.

Episode 2: Perfector of Gun Safety Shannon Watts Jan 18, 2021

Recorded under the Mama Bear Dares name, Leslie and Tesi have the honor of sitting down with Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, the largest grassroots movement in America fighting for public safety measures that protect people from gun violence. The women talk about the moral imperative to DO SOMETHING to help the vulnerable among us and encourage listeners with a message of empowerment: You are more powerful than you realize, the world needs you, and it’s time to step up.

Episode 1: Perfector of Democracy Representative Chrissy Houlahan Jan 11, 2021

Just days after the shocking insurrection and riot at the Capitol building in Washington, D.C., Representative Houlahan spoke with Tesi about the unbelievable events of January 6, 2021. The two women acknowledge the work that needs to be done to heal our country, as well as the trajectory of Chrissy’s life that led her to run for office in Pennsylvania. Learn more on The Perfectors website.

(The Perfectors Podcast was formerly the Mama Bear Dares Podcast.)

Introduction: The Perfectors Jan 09, 2021

We believe the world needs people who are determined to see love, compassion and justice win. We interview the perfectors doing just that. Welcome to the pod!

(This podcast was formerly the Mama Bear Dares Podcast.)

Episode 300: The Big & the Brutiful (2020) Jan 04, 2021

On Episode 300(!) of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down and reflect on all things 2020. They promise no wisdom or advice, but rather engage in a discussion of highs, lows, and meandering middles. The laugh and cry (literally) and do what we all need to do when the moment offers itself: Sit down to discuss this big, brutiful life with a friend. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 299: All Eyes on Georgia Dec 21, 2020

On Episode 299 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk through the run-off election in Georgia happening on January 5th. They discuss its importance and take a deep dive into the (bad) behavior exhibited by leadership and conspiracy theorists that has been highlighted in the run up to this special election. The lament the damaging language, the threats being made, and the lack of recourse on display. Finally, they talk through the ways that we can help to safeguard our society from normalizing such antics. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 298: Feeding American with Katie Fitzgerald Dec 14, 2020

On Episode 298 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Katie Fitzgerald from Feeding America, a nationwide network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs that provides food and services to people all across the country. As VP and COO of the nation's largest domestic hunger-relief organization, Katie explains the elevated need that so many Americans are facing due to COVID-19 and how her hunger relief organization is working towards a food-secure future for ALL. She provides incredible insight into the issue of food security and hunger in our country and what we can do to help. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 297: The Flag is For All of Us with Cori Pembleton Dec 07, 2020

On Episode of 297 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Cori Pembleton, the founder of The Flag is For All of Us. Cori, a woman with no history of activism but with huge talent and a critical perspective, felt that the American flag had been co-opted by people who in her view did not represent the America she loves. She believes this shift (whether subconscious or conscious) matters to our democracy and thus began a movement to educate and inspire. Listeners will be fascinated by her journey and will perhaps even feel encouraged to think about their own relationship with flag and all it symbolizes. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 296: Climate Change, the Outdoors, and You with Stephanie Howe Nov 30, 2020

On Episode 296 of the Mama Bear Dares website, Tesi and Leslie sit down with professional ultra-runner, sports nutritionist, and climate activist Dr. Stephanie Howe. The women discuss the idea that when you live your life outdoors like Stephanie does, you witness the effects of climate change firsthand. It’s this observation that has led Dr. Howe to engage with climate change advocacy, in particular with the brands she partners with as well as the organization Protect Our Winters. Listeners will appreciate her knowledge, experiences, and how she creates a sense of urgency in the climate change conversation. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 295: Representation Matters with Holly Hatam Nov 23, 2020

On Episode 295 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss the ins and outs of Thanksgiving 2020 and the importance of representation. For the latter, they lean on what they learn in their conversation with the brilliant NY Times bestselling illustrator Holly Hatam. Holly talks about the importance of diversity in children’s books and her dedication to leaving no off the page. With a focus on gratitude, the women encourage listeners to acknowledge and celebrate the unique experience and history of all people. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 294: Food Empowerment with Lauren Ornelas Nov 16, 2020

On Episode 294 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie revisit their conversation with Lauren Ornelas, the founder of the Food Empowerment Project, an organization that seeks to create a more just and sustainable world by recognizing the power of one’s food choices. The women discuss farm worker rights, veganism, chocolate slavery, the lack of access to healthy foods, and how we can all make more informed choices that can ultimately prevent injustice against animals, people, and the environment. Now, more than ever, is a great time to learn about the importance of—and treatment of—farm and factory workers in America and Lauren is a phenomenal resource and impressive activist. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 293: Transforming Anxiety into Courage with Renee Jain Nov 09, 2020

On Episode 293 of the Mama Bear Dare Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Renee Jain, the founder of child-psychology start-up GoZen! and co-author of SUPERPOWERED: Transform Anxiety into Courage, Confidence, and Resilience. As a recognized pioneer in the fields of technology and social and emotional learning, Renee and the sister-co-hosts discuss the emotional health of ALL of us (kids and adults alike) living through the year 2020. In this generous interview, Renee offers insight, skills, and HOPE for not just recognizing and managing our emotions, but using them for good. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 292: Where do we go from here? Nov 02, 2020

On Episode 292 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the November 3rd election one last time. They discuss the emotional toll of the last four years of living in the US under the Trump administration, take another look at voter suppression and the nuts and bolts of an election in pandemic times, and try to answer the inevitable: Where do we go from here? It’s a shorter, lighter Mama Bear podcast than typical … because no one has the energy for heavy things right now. Listen, laugh, and cross all the fingers and toes. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 291: Rebuild the Block with Alexis Akarolo & Zelnnetta Clark Oct 26, 2020

On Episode 291 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Alexis Adarolo and Zelnnetta Clark to talk about how their desire to help the Black community amidst Covid-19 went from a viral GoFundMe that raised over $200,000(!) to a nonprofit, Rebuild the Block, that works to redistribute wealth and knowledge to the Black community. The women share their passion, their knowledge, and their journey of giving grants and wide support to minority-owned businesses. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 290: Voter Suppression & the Right to Vote Oct 19, 2020

On Episode 290 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, in light of the fast-approaching election, Tesi and Leslie re-visit their talk about voting rights and voter suppression. Deeply rooted in research and in honor of the passion, work, and incredible life of Congressman John Lewis, the women recall the history of suffrage and voter suppression in the United States and the ways in which we can advocate so that ALL people can exercise this constitutional right. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 289: Vote to Save America with Shaniqua McClendon Oct 12, 2020

On Episode 289 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie re-visit a conversation they had with Shaniqua McClendon, Political Director for Crooked Media and brilliant Mama Bear. Shaniqua shares her experience as an intern in the Obama administration and as former staff for Senator Kay Hagan and Representative Alma Adams. Not only does she take listeners behind the scenes on Capitol Hill, but she talks about HOPE spurred on by the 2018 midterms and the difference between power for the sake of power versus power for the sake of progress. Finally, the women celebrate Shaniqua’s incredible work on Vote Save America and the road to the White House that will take us through November. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 288: Understanding Eviction with Carey Degenaro Oct 05, 2020

On Episode 288 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with legal activist Carey Degenaro, the litigation lead at the Colorado Covid-19 Eviction Defense Project, an important non-profit that responds to urgent questions about housing, homelessness, and community recovery during the COVID-19 health pandemic. Tesi and Carey talk about who has been impacted by this crisis, how people like Carey can help those that need guidance navigating this increasingly challenging situation, and the potential impact of an emerging housing crisis prompted by the pandemic. Click here for complete Show Notes.

Episode 287: Happier at Home with Myquillyn Smith Sep 28, 2020

On Episode 287 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie sits down with at-home expert Myquillyn Smith to talk about how we can be happier at home during a time in our life that the world requires us to be there more. The women discuss tips and tricks for making your home work for you, as well as the philosophy of physical space and hospitality. Ultimately, this episode is about beauty and the importance of working to find it in every aspect of life. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 286: Facebook & Mass Manipulation, Part 2 Sep 21, 2020

On Episode 286, Leslie and Tesi talk about the ongoing and widespread manipulation of Facebook and it’s role in proliferating real-life violence and real-life implications on elections across the globe. The research is alarming and the power and consequences that result from the influence of Facebook is undeniable. The women sift through research and land with great concern on a necessary conversation about how we might respond to the online behemoth’s impact on our lives and our democracy. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 285: Bust Through the Door & Bring Your Own Chair with Rosemary Ketchum Sep 14, 2020

On Episode 285 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi have the privilege of sitting down with Rosemary Ketchum, a former community organizer in Wheeling, West Virginia, and now, the state’s first out transgender elected official. Rosemary talks about her election, the importance of voting (she won her seat by 15 votes!), and busting down doors to get a seat at the table. She’s also the associate director of the city’s local drop-in center for the National Alliance for Mental Illness. A fierce advocate for the marginalized, Rosemary’s story is wonderful, her wisdom is never-ending, and the conversation is full of energy and passion. For completete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 284: The School-to-Prison Pipeline Sep 07, 2020

On Episode 284 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi spend their time together talking about a massive subject: the school-to-prison pipeline. (Note: This episode was previously released in March 2020.) They use their mama bear impulse to try to understand why students of color, students with learning disabilities, or students with histories of poverty, abuse, or neglect are often isolated, punished, and “pushed out.” Much like their episode entitled “The Privilege Pipeline,” the women share stories of their own experience as parents in the public schools and sift through the research regarding the systems in place. The episode is informative as well as thought-provoking. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 283: Parenting in the Digital Age with Leah Plunkett Aug 31, 2020

On Episode 283 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk to Leah Plunkett, a digital privacy expert, mom, advocate, author, and faculty associate at the Youth & Media team at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University. The women discuss Leah’s book (Sharenting: Why We Should THINK Before We Talk About Our Kids Online) and how we can keep kids safe in a world that’s digital in nature. The conversation ranges from digital baby monitors to social media to your kids’ school lunch account to virtual learning, and explores how laws in the United States have led to an “over-sharenting” problem that ultimately undermines our children—and, ultimately, how adults can make choices that restore the privacy and freedom that our kids deserve. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 282: Coronavirus & Feminism (with Pam Harris) Aug 24, 2020

On Episode 282 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss how Covid-19 is impacting women, in particular women who are juggling home and workplace responsibilities. As the virus exposes the shortcomings of society, the co-hosts focus on gender equality, the already-existing gender pay gap, the “second shift,” and the mental lode and honor the pain and inconvenience so many women are experiencing right now. They dig into research (new and emerging) that point to the ways in which women are feeling much of the brunt of caregiving and speak with Pam Harris, a mom and professional wading through a new reality.

Episode 281: Vote to Save America with Shaniqua McClendon Aug 17, 2020

On Episode 281 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Shaniqua McClendon, Political Director for Crooked Media and brilliant Mama Bear. Shaniqua shares her experience as an intern in the Obama administration and as former staff for Senator Kay Hagan and Representative Alma Adams. Not only does she take listeners behind the scenes on Capitol Hill, but she talks about HOPE spurred on by the 2018 midterms and the difference between power for the sake of power versus power for the sake of progress. Finally, the women celebrate Shaniqua’s incredible work on Vote Save America and the road to the White House that will take us through November. Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 280: You Can Be A Lobbyist with Elena Hung Aug 10, 2020

On Episode 280 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Elena Hung, co-founder and director of Little Lobbyists, an incredible organization that seeks to protect and expand the rights of children who have complex medical needs and disabilities through advocacy, education, and outreach. Elena shares her journey of working WITH and on BEHALF of families with medically complex kids, about the power of story to change hearts and minds AND policy. She and her fellow advocates refuse to accept the policies and legislation being advanced by the current administration and Congress and seek to educate legislators by showing up in-person with their children (and their ventilators, oxygen tanks, feeding tubes, wheelchairs, and more!) so that everyone can see first-hand who is impacted by laws and programs like the ACA, Medicaid, ADA, and IDEA. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for details.

Episode 280: You Can Be A Lobbyist with Elena Hung Aug 10, 2020

On Episode 280 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Elena Hung, co-founder and director of Little Lobbyists, an incredible organization that seeks to protect and expand the rights of children who have complex medical needs and disabilities through advocacy, education, and outreach. Elena shares her journey of working WITH and on BEHALF of families with medically complex kids, about the power of story to change hearts and minds AND policy. She and her fellow advocates refuse to accept the policies and legislation being advanced by the current administration and Congress and seek to educate legislators by showing up in-person with their children (and their ventilators, oxygen tanks, feeding tubes, wheelchairs, and more!) so that everyone can see first-hand who is impacted by laws and programs like the ACA, Medicaid, ADA, and IDEA. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for details.

Episode 279: Vote Like A Mother with Sara Berliner Aug 03, 2020

On Episode 279 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with the creative force behind VOTE LIKE A MOTHER, Sara Berliner. Sara is working to rally parents and all people of conscience to get politically engaged and believes that parenthood can be a powerful lens for politics. The women discuss current events, the 2020 election, and the ways we can work to make a world that’s more just and equitable for all. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 278: Voter Suppression & The Right to Vote Jul 27, 2020

On Episode 278 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about voting rights and voter suppression. Deeply rooted in research and in honor of the passion, work, and incredible life of Congressman John Lewis, the women recall the history of suffrage and voter suppression in the United States and the ways in which we can advocate so that ALL people can exercise this constitutional right. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 277: A Better Way with Rebecca Smith Jul 20, 2020

On Episode 277 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with Rebecca Smith, the founder of Better Life Bags and author of A Better Life: Slowing Down to Get Ahead. They discuss the power and possibility of social entrepreneurism, living counter to a culture that values hustle and the bottom line, being true to ourselves, and the many ways in which we can show up for one another in solidarity and love. It’s an upbeat conversation about care, compassion, and using the ways we can use our talents and gifts for a better life for all. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 276: The Bail Project with Kaitlin Koga Jul 13, 2020

On Episode 276 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Kaitlin Koga, Chief of Staff of The Bail Project, a phenomenal organization that aims to prevent incarceration and the combat racial and economic disparities in the bail system. It’s a fascinating conversation about America’s cash-bail and it’s part in our country’s system of mass incarceration and racial inequality. The women discuss the criminalization of poverty, and policing…both it’s problems and the potential of a different approach. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 275: Swing Left with Tori Taylor Jul 06, 2020

On Episode 275 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Tori Taylor, fierce Mama Bear and co-executive director of the incredible grassroots organization Swing Left. Swing Left helps volunteers find the most impactful ways to use their time, talent, and treasure to make sure this country progresses forward…without leaving anyone behind. They helped Democrats win the house in 2018 and they’ve got their sights set on not just the presidential race in 2020, but many other local races as well. The three women talk about the depths of gerrymandering, how to make change happen during a pandemic, and the real, tangible ways that each of us can get involved. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 274: Courtrooms & Classroom (and the need an Anti-Racist public education) Jun 29, 2020

On Episode of 274 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi & Leslie take some time to celebrate the recent Supreme Court rulings on LGBTQ+ rights and protections and the DACA decision. They explore the incredible work of Dr. Shermariah Arki and her eye-opening definitions of common terms used often in public education. The women discuss the importance of learning, unlearning, and re-learning, the need for anti-racist public education, and what Mama Bears can do to move the needle. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 273: Being Human with Judy Heumann Jun 22, 2020

On Episode 273 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Judy Heumann, a disability rights activist who was chosen as one of the 100 women who defined the last century and was featured in the recent documentary Crip Camp. Forty years ago, Judy helped lead a groundbreaking protest called the Section 504 sit-in, in which disabled-rights activists occupied a federal building for almost a month, demanding greater accessibility for all. Judy has led an incredible life of activism bringing tangible change to our country. On this episode of the pod, Judy generously shares her incredible stories of advocacy, her wisdom, and her hope. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 272: Race Women with Maya Millett Jun 15, 2020

On Episode 272 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Maya Millett, the extraordinary woman behind Race Women. The three women talk about history, about reverence and anger, and about the ways in which we are indebted to the strong women who came before us. Maya is an incredibly talented storyteller who insists on using her talents and experience to broaden our collective conversation and ultimately make change. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 271: No More Virtue Signaling, Mama Bear Must Act Jun 08, 2020

On Episode 271 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie encourage listeners to join Campaign Zero and educate themselves about #8CantWait, an initiative to immediately address police violence. They discuss each part of the initiative and continue to act as “crossing guards” for their listeners, using the podcast as starting point of education, but asking listeners to seek out BIPOC voices as we all continue to mature in our education and advocacy. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 270: Mama Bears Demand Action with Shannon Watts Jun 01, 2020

On Episode 270 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie and Tesi have the honor of sitting down with Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, the largest grassroots movement in Americans fighting for public safety measures that protect people from gun violence. The women talk about the moral imperative to DO SOMETHING to help the vulnerable among us and encourage listeners with a message of empowerment: You are more powerful than you realize and the world needs you. Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 269: Mama Bear & the Cold Black Heart May 25, 2020

On Episode 269 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss strategies to keep their stressed-out, pandemic-heavy, world-weary hearts from turning cold and black. They talk about what’s giving them life in this moment and the things that they should probably feel guilty about, but don’t. This playful and earnest episode revolves around the idea that, with some intention, we can exist as complex beings amidst a complex time…and even cultivate joy. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 268: Art is Power with Holiday Reinhorn May 18, 2020

On Episode 268 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Holiday Reinhorn, author and co-founder of LIDÈ Haiti, a community-based organization providing academic support and arts programs that EMPOWER and strengthen the resiliency of adolescent girls and differently abled youth who have been denied equal access to education. In this fantastic conversation Holiday reminds us of the transformative power of the arts and inspires us with her story, her wisdom, and her dedication to spreading creativity and love in this world. Listen in! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 267: Food is Power with Laurie Ornelas May 11, 2020

On Episode 267 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Lauren Ornelas, the founder of the Food Empowerment Project, an organization that seeks to create a more just and sustainable world by recognizing the power of one’s food choices. The women discuss farm worker rights, veganism, chocolate slavery, the lack of access to healthy foods, and how we can all make more informed choices that can ultimately prevent injustice against animals, people, and the environment. Now, more than ever, is a great time to learn about the importance of—and treatment of—farm and factory workers in America and Lauren is a phenomenal resource and impressive activist. For full Show Notes visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 266: The COVID Wealth Gap May 04, 2020

On Episode 266 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about how systems, policies, and economic stimulus plans have repeatedly failed people of color, women, and minorities. They dive into the history of these harmful policies and talk about how in the midst of a global health pandemic and the consequential economic collapse, it’s the poor and marginalized who continue to lose. For complete Show Notes, head to the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 265: Live Your Truth (No Matter the Cost) with Jen Hatmaker Apr 27, 2020

On Episode 265 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Jen Hatmaker, writer, speaker, activist and author of, most recently, Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire. The three discuss showing up in life as genuine, curious, brave, truth-tellers and change-makers. They celebrate putting in the internal work required to know and love yourself and how, even when the cost of high, living authentically brings freedom and joy. The conversation is filled with passion and laughter; you’ll come away inspired to own and live your truth in this complicated world! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 264: Privilege, Poverty, & the Pandemic Apr 20, 2020

On Episode 264 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, sister/co-hosts Tesi and Leslie jump into the racial and economic disparities that COVID-19 is shining a great big spotlight on in the United States and around the world. As we begin to see more data and hear more about the racial and class discrimination this virus is highlighting in our society, the two women look at all of the symptoms and underlying conditions in Black communities, Latinx communities, and under-resourced and under-served communities that have led to this place: how black and brown people (women, in particular) are received in the healthcare system, the discrimination in everything from education to policing, and how the economics (the minimum wage, in particular) are all leading to a world where the most vulnerable of society are being disproportionately sickened by the Corona virus. Now, more than ever, the world needs compassionate, informed humans ready to do what they can, when they can. Find complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 263: #OscarsSoWhite with April Reign Apr 13, 2020

On Episode 263 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with activist April Reign, the woman who propelled her hashtag “OscarsSoWhite” into a powerful movement challenging the lack of representation of marginalized communities in Hollywood … and beyond. The women discuss April’s work, beginning with a seemingly innocent and witty tweet back in 2015, using your influence and skill to fight for permanent systemic change, and why the posture of learning and how it’s essential to being a better advocate or ally.

Episode 262: Hope in the Time of Corona (A Mama Bear Mini with a Special Interview with Matt Thraxton) Apr 08, 2020

On Episode 262 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi takes listeners into the future, so to speak, with a special interview with Matt Thraxton, a friend who has lived through the worst of Covid-19 in Shanghai, China. He tells listeners what it was like for him to experience weeks in lockdown in China AND gives us hope that life can (and will) go back to some sort of normal. His observations are fascinating and his advice about living through this pandemic is honest and optimistic. After the interview, the sisters talk amongst themselves about where to find HOPE and offer practical steps for the Mama Bear who is eager to help. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 262: Hope in the Time of Corona (A Mama Bear Mini with a special interview with Matt Thraxton) Apr 06, 2020

On Episode 262 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi takes listeners into the future, so to speak, with a special interview with Matt Thraxton, a friend who has lived through the worst of Covid-19 in Shanghai, China. He tells listeners what it was like for him to experience weeks in lockdown in China AND gives us hope that life can (and will) go back to some sort of normal. His observations are fascinating and his advice about living through this pandemic is honest and optimistic. After the interview, the sisters talk amongst themselves about where to find HOPE and offer practical steps for the Mama Bear who is eager to help. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 261: The Bold World with Jodie Patterson Mar 30, 2020

On Episode 261 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Jodie Patterson, whose philanthropic work has been recognized by Hillary Clinton, Family Circle, the UN, and the Human Rights Campaign, among others, and whose beautifully written memoir, The Bold World: A Memoir of Family and Transformation, puts on full display the passion and heart that drives her remarkable work. Jodie’s is a powerful message about identity, equality, community, and the unbridled love of a Mama Bear. Jodie shares her story of coming to understand and fight on behalf of her transgender child. This conversation is about legacy, what it means to be a queer family, what it looks like to raise the kids in front of you (not the ones you imagined having), and finally, about how all of us can harness and release our unlimited potential. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 260: Mama Bear & the Global Health Pandemic Mar 23, 2020

On Episode 260 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the global health pandemic, the power of the mama bear spirit, and the importance of community and nurturing mental health during this time. The episode aims to bring cultural observation, personal response, and a bit of hope and inspiration to the Mama Bear community. Stay safe and stay home, Mama Bears! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 259: Stop Cursing the News & Run for Local Office! w/ Adrienne Martini Mar 16, 2020

On Episode 259 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi have a conversation with Adrienne Martini, who holds a District 12 seat on the Otsego (New York) County Board and is the author of the book SOMEBODY’S GOTTA DO IT: Why Cursing at the News Won’t Save the Nation, but Your Name on a Local Ballot Can. The conversation with Adrienne is informative and inspiring…and so much fun. The women talk about the Covid-19 and the importance of local government response, about Adrienne’s run for office, and about how, as a middle-aged, cisgender, white woman, Adrienne focuses her privilege and her Mama Bear agency on policy and winning a seat in local government. The conversation is poignant, fun, and filled with hope and joy! Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 258: Human Trafficking with Rebecca Bender Mar 09, 2020

On Episode 258 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with the remarkable Rebecca Bender, a survivor of human trafficking and advocate for those still bound by this modern-day slave practice. Rebecca shares her incredible story of being coerced into prostitution, abused and controlled by her trafficker, and her eventual escape after nearly six years of terror. Today, Rebecca trains others on the topics of human trafficking and leadership and serves on the United States National Advisory Committee, Dept of Justice Human Trafficking Advisory Council. The conversation ranges from the realities of trafficking in the U.S. in 2020, grace and hope, the church’s role in loving people, and the legislation surrounding this crucial issue. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 257: The School-to-Prison Pipeline Mar 02, 2020

On Episode 257 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi spend their time together talking about a massive subject: the school-to-prison pipeline. They use their mama bear impulse to try to understand why students of color, students with learning disabilities, or students with histories of poverty, abuse, or neglect are often isolated, punished, and “pushed out.” Much like their episode entitled “The Privilege Pipeline,” the women share stories of their own experience as parents in the public schools and sift through the research regarding the systems in place. The episode is informative as well as thought-provoking. For links to research and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 256: Lead with Love with Monroe Alise Feb 24, 2020

On Episode 256 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Monroe Alise to discuss the massive issue of homelessness in the United States. Monroe is a passionate advocate of the homeless through her work with the National Coalition for the Homeless and shares her hard-won wisdom with listeners. She shares her incredible story of resilience and her struggle with mental illness, substance abuse, and homelessness throughout the course of her life as a black, trans woman and has incredible wisdom and experiences to offer listeners. The conversation is from-the-heart as well as informative and inspiring. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 255: Lean Hard on Your Gal Pal Feb 17, 2020

On Episode 255 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie grab their mics in celebration of female friendship. As the season of love and GALentines comes to a close, this episode is a fight song for checking in, staying in touch, and loving each other in a sometimes-chaotic world. They talk about politics, misogeny, the Iowa caucus, parenting, health and healthcare, dancing with the universe, and more. At its heart, this episode is about talking to one another and encouraging others to do the same, because sometimes, in the midst of it all, you really just need to laugh (and maybe cry a little bit, too) with your gal pals. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 254: Phones, Games, Screens, & (Over)Use with Nadja Streiter Feb 10, 2020

On Episode 254 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Nadja Streiter, a licensed therapist who specializes in families struggling with gaming and technology overuse. The women spend their time discussing the massive topic of technology use in 2020. It’s a huge topic and Nadja helps equip listeners with tools needed to navigate gaming issues, phone use, and technology. They explore helpful language surrounding the complex topic (“tech like you eat”) and they dive into what we need to know about gaming, the difference between addiction, a hobby or a problem, and how to keep phone use and gaming in balance. It’s a great conversation about an enormous topic. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 253: Facebook & Mass Manipulation Feb 03, 2020

On Episode 253 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss the behemoth company and cultural influencer, Facebook. So many of us live with a love-hate relationship with this social media giant and have conflicted feelings about it’s place in our lives. Leslie and Tesi use this Mama Bear Mini to specifically dive into how Facebook has been a dangerous purveyor of disinformation and how the platform has been used to influence politics and elections and therefore life as we know it. Though there are many discussions to be had about our global culture and Facebook, today’s pod focuses on politics and aims to both educate and prompt listeners to examine their own relationship to social media. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

FAM: For All Moms Jan 29, 2020

Introducing the newest Audioboom original podcast, FAM: For All Moms. This podcast is literally for all moms living through the madness that is parenthood. Join hosts Susan Yara and Sharzad Kiadeh every Wednesday as they share their sometimes embarrassing experiences, while also providing advice from experts and friends. FAM: For All Moms premieres 1/29. Subscribe to FAM: For All Moms on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fam-for-all-moms/id1494037915

Episode 252: Cultivating Leaders & Scholars with Andra Pool Jan 27, 2020

On Episode 252, Tesi and Leslie sit down with the fabulous and passionate Andra Pool. Andra is a Mama Bear who works tirelessly on behalf of young adults through Greenhouse Scholars, an education nonprofit cultivating leaders to change low-income families and communities. Andra and the sister-hosts talk about secondary and post-secondary education in the United States and agree that now more than ever the world needs people like Andra and organizations like Greenhouse Scholars to break the cycle of poverty, level the playing field for all aspiring students, and ensure lasing, generational change to broadly impact low-income communities. The conversation is rooted in a shared belief in the power of education and the beauty of human potential. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 251: The Minimum Wage Needs a Mama Bear Jan 20, 2020

On Episode 251 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts and sisters Leslie and Tesi try to better understand the economy that, on one hand, so many tell us is booming while, on the other hand, we see the reality of the working poor. If the unemployment rate is at historic lows, then why are an estimated 41.4 percent of the total U.S. population considered poor or low-income? Leslie and Tesi take a deep dive into research and talk about the history of the minimum wage in our country, the arguments for and against raising a minimum wage, and the impact that a higher rate of pay would have on nearly 50% of American earners. It’s an interesting discussion, full of facts and anecdotes that all lead to one conclusion: The minimum wage is in desperate need of a mama bear. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 250: Poking Holes in Systems of Injustice with Rebecca Nagle Jan 13, 2020

On Episode 250 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Rebecca Nagle, a queer, indigenous activist, writer, and speaker. Nagle is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and is one of the founders of FORCE: Upsetting Rape Culture, an organization led by artists and activists who attempt to promote a culture of consent. She is also the host of the popular and fascinating podcast THIS LAND, which focuses on the 1839 assassination of a Cherokee leader and a 1999 murder case and how these two crimes provide a backbone to an upcoming 2019 Supreme Court decision that will determine the fate of five tribes and nearly half the land in Oklahoma. During this rich conversation, the three women talk about Nagle’s work with sexual abuse survivors, how she has used art to further tough conversations and make bold statements to shake the collective psyche out of the status quo, and how we have to think about poking holes in those huge systems that are at play in our culture. It’s a great conversation with an incredible guest! Listen in! (For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.)

Episode 249: Top Ten of 2019 Jan 07, 2020

On Episode 249 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie take a moment to reflect on some big moments, new obsessions, a few observations, and the Top Ten most listened to podcasts from the last year. It’s a fun conversation that will give listeners a taste of ten topics worth exploring, as well as a focused dare for the new year. For a list of episodes and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website here.

Episode 248: Mental Detox with Grace Estripeaut Dec 30, 2019

On Episode 248 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie revisit a fascinating conversation with Grace Estripeaut, a mental detox expert and all-around fascinating woman. The three jump right in to discuss Grace’s story and life’s work. Grace helps listeners with stories and practical steps to guide them to a calmer life with more clarity. Grace shares tips on how to switch off your busy mind and decompress so you can actually sleep and start the next day refreshed, how to boost your energy and improve your mood, how to find SPACE in your life, and ways to fuel your tank, encourage your vision, and stay focused on what matters most -- regardless of what’s happening around you! Listeners will be blown away by this conversation. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 247: Food Deserts & Oppression (AKA The Holiday Episode!) Dec 23, 2019

On Episode 247 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi bring all of their holiday intensity to a discussion of the prevalence of food deserts across our nation. Too many Americans suffer due to the lack access to affordable, healthy food options because of the absence of grocery stores within convenient traveling distance, and too many of this country’s children are negatively affected by not just the geography but by the larger systemic issues that we face. Because of the inequity of systems in place, many activists prefer the words “food oppression” or “food apartheid” to describe the injustice, and after sifting through the research, Tesi and Leslie understand why. The sister-hosts discuss the magnitude of the problem, the implications of food oppression, and, finally, the solutions that are working and the ways in which an engaged Mama Bear might engage. It’s a big topic, to be sure, but it’s one worth your attention and care. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 246: Prepare to Primary with Emily Tisch Sussman Dec 16, 2019

On Episode 246 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk to the extraordinary Emily Tisch Sussman. Emily has been at the forefront of executing strategy for the progressive movement in the United States for more than a decade. She is a leading democratic political strategist who appears regularly on FOX News, CNN, HLN, and MSNBC and whose views are frequently featured in national news outlets including The New York Times, Newsweek, and Politico. Today, she spends time talking to Tesi and Leslie’s listeners about her life, her work, her hope, and her response to the world we find ourselves living in. Listeners will love her expertise and practical advice when it comes to all-things politics as we prepare for 2020. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 245: Let’s Not Buy Gifts Made with Other People’s Tears (The Holiday Gift Guide) Dec 09, 2019

On Episode 255 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss fairtrade, the fast fashion industry, and what to avoid and what to embrace during this American holiday shopping season. The two women talk about what goes into a fairtrade label, what the fast fashion industry is doing to our earth and human beings, and why it matters. They encourage listeners to do their best, vote with their dollars, and look for all of the great, creative companies who are taking social responsibility in the production of their wares—in terms of the way they treat their workers and their environmental impact. It’s a fun and informative episode. Listen in! Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 244: Yoga, Power, & Life in an RV with Catherine Middlebrooks Dec 02, 2019

On Episode 244 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Catherine Middlebrooks to discuss yoga, life in an RV, and how moms can and should live a BIG, FULL life. They discuss the ins and outs of and how restoring the core and pelvic floor during the postpartum period plays a huge part in being able to enjoy motherhood and life, and how Catherine manages the adventure of traveling with her family in the RV they inhabit. The conversation is informative, fun, and a powerful reminder that when we follow our own gut about what’s best for ourselves and our family, we are infinitely happier. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 243: Girls & Sex Nov 25, 2019

On Episode 243, Leslie and Tesi sit down and talk about girls and sex. They dive into the research (for instance, Peggy Orenstein’s fabulous book) and try to crystallize what they’ve learned for listeners and offer a few practical take-aways. They discuss what the research is saying about girls, teenagers, and young women in America in 2019, how to talk to our kids about sex, consent, porn, and female pleasure. It’s a fascinating, educational look at the world we occupy and how we can be allies to the young women in our lives. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 242: Say My Name with Huda Essa Nov 18, 2019

On Episode 242 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Huda Essa, an extraordinary woman who uses her training and experience to educate and influence communities across the nation as a Cultural Competency Consultant. Huda is a TEDx speaker and the author of a motivational children's book, Teach Us Your Name, which is focused on empowering children to take pride in their many identities while showing respect for themselves and others. Throughout the conversation, the three women discuss the importance of recognizing personal biases, understanding the influence of our culture, and the small yet profound steps all of us can take in order to promote a more accepting and inclusive world. For complete Show Notes visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 241: Bias, Orphan Care, & Other Tricky Topics with Katie Ganshert Nov 11, 2019

On Episode 241 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with author and activist Katie Ganshert and discuss everything from how to have productive conversations with those we don’t agree with, how to use our spheres of influence to turn the dial toward less bias to more love, how our good intentions need to be backed by mountains of thoughtful research and great questions in order to have the most positive impact, and how National Adoption Month can be both loaded with complexity and a beautiful opportunity to serve the world. The conversation is far-reaching, honest, and pleasantly intense. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 240: The Racial Wealth Gap Nov 04, 2019

On Episode 240 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down to learn more about the racial wealth gap in America. In this episode, the women bring all kinds of research, numbers, and statistics, they explore the long history of the racial wealth gap in our country, and they examine the long history of policies put into place that have kept Blacks, Whites, and Latinos in America on a terribly uneven playing field when it comes to acquiring and keeping wealth. The sister/co-hosts do the work to crumble the misconception that acquiring wealth is ONLY a matter or working hard and they explore the policies that maintains the huge gaps between races living in America. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 239: Maternal Rights Are Human Rights with Arianna Taboada Oct 28, 2019

On Episode 239 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Arianna Taboada, a maternal health researcher, advocate, lecturer, trainer, fierce Mama Bear, and maternity leave consultant. Ariana brings incredible perspective and the latest research and information about the current systems and policies in place in our country regarding postpartum health and maternity (and paternity) leave. The three women enjoy a lively conversation full of carefully investigated facts and anecdotes that will leave listeners inspired to learn more and to advocate for the rights of American families. Learn more about Ariana on her website and Instagram. For more about the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, click here.

Episode 238: Healthcare in America: What a Mama Bear Needs to Know Oct 21, 2019

On Episode 238 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie dig into a discussion of healthcare in America. Who’s insured? For what? At what cost? Why does America rank so low in terms of health among industrialized nations across the globe? Tesi shares her personal health journey with chronic lyme’s disease and what she’s learned about insurance in the process. The women work hard to keep politics out of the conversation (minus a discussion of the Democratic front-runners proposed plans) and look at insurance and healthcare as humans and taxpayers. This episode is for anyone who has been confused or unsure about this monolithic topic. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast.

Episode 237: Rebalancing the Domestic Workload with Eve Rodsky Oct 15, 2019

On Episode 237, Leslie and Tesi were thrilled to sit down with Eve Rodsky, the author of Reese Witherspoon’s October book pick, FAIR PLAY: A Game-Changing Solution For When You Have Too Much To Do (And More Life to Live). The women lament the mental load that so many of us shoulder, but ultimately celebrate Eve’s revolutionary system for rebalancing the domestic workload between partners, putting an end to the imbalance of “invisible work” that women do regardless of whether they work outside the home. The conversation is candid, insightful, full of facts and information, AND leaves listeners with the tools and the hope they so desperately need to create a practical solution that will ultimately save our sanity, identity, career, and partnerships. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 236: Faith & Fumes (Parenting Teens & Tweens) with Demi Austin Thomas Oct 07, 2019

On Episode 236 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with “The Tween Queen,” family expert Demi Austin Thomas. A well-respected parenting coach and exceedingly loving person, Demi helps families and parents navigate their way through difficult times. The three women enjoy an authentic, truth- and wisdom-filled conversation spanning from Demi’s own struggles as a teenager, to her direct approach to communicating with teens by meeting them where they are emotionally and mentally. The women enjoy sharing stories and Tesi and Leslie appreciate Demi’s approach, which have been described as old school with a redefined approach. Listen, laugh, nod your head, and learn. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 235: Cultural Appropriation Sep 30, 2019

On Episode 235, Tesi and Leslie add their Mama Bear voice to the discussion of cultural appropriation…a conversation they feel is relevant not just on Halloween but on every other day of the year as well. They discuss how to be cultural appreciators rather than appropriators, why they cling tightly to the maxim that Friends Don’t Let Friends Wear Blackface, and what makes them adamant in their belief that when you know better you do better. The sisters are candid about past mistakes and mis-steps, bring the research behind their current views, and challenge one another, as well as listeners, to look beyond themselves and carefully consider the weight of each of our actions. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 234: Loss, Grief, & Suicide Prevention with Anne Moss Rogers Sep 23, 2019

On Episode 234 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Anne Moss Rogers, a fierce mental health advocate, speaker, and writer who helps people foster a culture of connection to prevent suicide, reduce substance misuse, and find life after loss. Through their discussion, Anne Moss teaches Tesi and Leslie about how to talk about suicide and grief, potential warning signs, helpful resources, and how to walk through life with a grieving friend. Anne Moss shares the sorrow of her son Charles dying by suicide after many years of struggling with anxiety, depression, and addiction and listeners will be grateful as she gracefully shares her hard-won wisdom and compassion. This episode is a tender conversation filled with truth, strength, and comfort. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please dial 1-800-273-8255 right now to get help.

Episode 233: Hustle Culture is a Scam Sep 16, 2019

On Episode 233 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss #HUSTLE #GRIND #TEAMNOSLEEP #GETIT #DOWORK #HUSTLINGHARD and how all of these pithy hashtags add up to the very real phenomenon of what’s known as “Hustle Culture.” The women dissect the idea of Hustle Culture from a feminist and classist perspective and question the idea that success only comes after exerting yourself at max capacity, all day, every day. They discuss their own tendencies toward hustle, and end the episode with ideas of how to wade through Hustle Culture, how to help kids navigate a workplace focused on a narrow view of success, and reflect on what makes a whole and healthy being in the midst of 2019. Go to the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 232: The World Needs You to BREATHE Sep 09, 2019

On Episode 232 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, sister-cohosts Leslie and Tesi sit down with Dr. Brandie Nemchenko. Since 2002, Dr. Brandie has worked as a chiropractor and has noticed a change in women’s health…a change that’s not necessarily for the better. In a conversation filled with practical tips and advice, Dr. Brandie talks about how we can better care for ourselves and our bodies as we lead lives full of love and service. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 231: Purity Culture Sep 02, 2019

On Episode 231 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about purity culture and its impact on girls and women in America in 2019. Horrified by the stories of Jeffrey Epstein, incited by a culture of victim blaming and shaming, and concerned about the cultural waters we currently swim in, the two women talk about their own experiences as well as the experience of raising daughters in 2019. How can we do better by our daughters AND our sons? How can we disagree with grace without shaming one another? How do we do better as a culture to love better and respect more? The sister-hosts discuss these questions and more in this Mama Bear Mini. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 230: Kindness is Cool Aug 26, 2019

On Episode 230 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie revisit an episode (previously titled Make America Kind Again)that reminds listeners of their stance on kindness: We refuse to let it die! In fact, they wholeheartedly believe that what America needs (along with policy change) is more kindness. The women also recognize the responsibility we have as parents raising children in our current American culture to make sure that the virtue of kindness outlasts the test of time. Because, in some spheres, kindness seems to be on life-support, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie spend this episode discussing what we can do to instill this value in the kids we influence. How do we raise kind kids? It turns out, there's actually a language to kindness and it's discussed in this fun and fascinating episode! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 229: Money Talks with Miko Ehrmantraut Aug 19, 2019

On Episode 229 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with Miko Ehrmantraut, akaThe Budget Mom, who is on a mission to empower women to build a life they love on a budget they understand and can afford. Miko answers practical questions about budgeting, credit cards, college savings, financial priorities and goals and more, as the two women have a candid conversation about how to make money work for you and your family in the very most practical sense. All listeners will be intrigued by how Miko paid off $77,000 in debt over 8 months and how she continues to live a life she loves … within her means. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 228: Horrified by Gun Violence? Here's What We Can Do Aug 12, 2019

On Episode 228 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi channel their feelings of helplessness over the recent gun violence ravaging America and put together a list of things that we, as individuals and Mama Bears, can DO as a response to white nationalism and terrorism. The women leave no stone unturned to the multi-layered horror we’re currently experiencing (they discuss upcoming elections, gaslighting, toxic masculinity, racism, video games and mental illness) and look for ways to sway the dial through owning our individual agency and doing what’s right. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 227: Fiction, Female Desire, & the Path to Your Dreams with Abi Maxwell Aug 05, 2019

On Episode 227 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk books and media and following your dream, even when it’s discouraging. They sit down with Abi Maxwell, author of the new novel, THE DEN, and discuss how writing fiction can be an act of the Mama Bear, how gender roles can be broken with the power of the pen, and how there is meaning in the making. In other words, sometimes the process of doing something worth doing is just as informative and rewarding as the success at the end. Click on the Mama Bear website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 226: The Language of Racism & Why Words Matter Jul 29, 2019

On Episode 226 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss current events, in particular, President Trump’s recent tweets at four congresswomen asking them to “go back and help fix the totally broken and crime infested places from which they came.” They lament the president’s use of power to other and divide, and focus in on the words “go back” in an effort to highlight the history of such sentiment and the use of the phrase as a dog whistle for white supremacy. The two sisters look back at the historial context of this phrase and others, discuss their own racism and a mama bear response, acknowledge the cultural waters in which we swim, and ask listeners to jump into this national conversation armed with information. They conclude the episode with a tale of Leslie’s recent trip to Egypt and a few surprises she encountered there while traveling with a U.S. passport in 2019. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 225: Powerful, Brilliant, & Brave with Heather Adams Jul 22, 2019

On Episode 225 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Heather Adams, the driving force behind a wildly successful and well-respected business, a wise and positive mentor to young women, and cheerleader for all that is good and just in this world. The women discuss how Heather has created a positive, celebratory culture with her all-female staff at Choice Media and Communications, how we can encourage our fellow women to new heights and to reaching our full potential, how our work can be purpose-filled, and how to honor relationships in our very full lives. Listen in and be inspired by Heather’s words, wisdom, and journey! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 224: In Praise of Good Enough Jul 15, 2019

On Episode 224 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie celebrate the virtue of “good enough.” Though the women value excellence and strive to be the best versions of self possible, the women spend this Mama Bear Mini talking about motivation, expectations, and the virtue of imperfection. They discuss enjoying hobbies for the sake of enjoyment rather than mastery, cultural influences that impact our leisure behavior, and the joy of celebrating the “okay-ness” of others. This episode, an ode to the “good enough” mother/friend/human/Mama Bear, will inspire listeners to embrace imperfection and find her power there. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 223: To Throw A Party & Change the World with Kelly Welk Jul 08, 2019

On Episode 223 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with Kelly Welk, hostess extraordinaire and anti-sex trafficking advocate. Years ago, Kelly looked around and saw extra — extra food in her refrigerator, extra space in her home, extra seats at her table — and felt compelled to find ways to share her plenitude. She started by throwing a dinner party for friends to raise money for Rescue Freedom International and has since raised tens of thousands of dollars for trafficked girls, started a business, and engaged her community in big and beautiful ways. The women talk about how to act on your big and bold dreams, how to channel what you love into making a difference in what you care most about, and how to find the courage and wisdom to engage the Mama Bear to share your abundance. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 222: The Stuff of Summer (Screens, Teens, & Bikini Bodies) Jul 01, 2019

On Episode 222 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi dig in and discuss all things summer. They begin with a conversation about self-love and body shame…namely how we as women internalize the messages surrounding what we wear to the beach. The co-hosts believe deeply that we all have bikini bodies and encourage listeners to celebrate theirs! The women also discuss new research and parenting teens with screens over the summer months. They wrap up the episode talking about health, healthcare, and advocating for ourselves as women seeking attention, understanding, and treatment. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 221: Adventure Mama with Justine Nobbe Jun 24, 2019

On Episode 221 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Justine Nobbe, the co-founder of the Adventure Mamas Initiative and all-around Mama Bear. The co-hosts couldn’t wait to talk to Justine after a listener wrote in and said this: “The organization [Adventure Mamas] is hell-bent on seeing mamas take the time to take care of themselves and to find a strength they didn’t know they had among a group of supportive and badass women. Justine is our brave warrior leading with intention, authenticity, KINDNESS, and verve. I admire her work, her family, and her badass survival skills.” Justine lived up to every work of this high praise…and more! Listen in as the three women discuss adventure and motherhood, maternal wellness, emotional health, why movement matters and intersectional inclusion in a male-dominated space. It’s an uplifiting conversation, friends. Listen in! (For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.)

Episode 220: CBD—A PRIMER Jun 17, 2019

On Episode 220 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi drop back in with Tatum Drewes to talk about health, healing, and helping. Not only is Tatum an inspiring woman, pioneer, and business owner who believes in helping others live their best, pain-free life, but she's also an expert in CBD oil and the medicinal properties of the hemp plant. Tatum owns Higher Healing and is generous in sharing her passion and knowledge as the hosts learn more about this natural healing phenomenon and how much it can benefit women across a country in the midst of an opioid drug crisis. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 219: Love & Letters with Ashley Asti Jun 10, 2019

On Episode 219 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Ashley Asti, a woman who is using her Mama Bear to form relationships with men and women incarcerated in our country. Ashley became a pen-pal to over 30 prisoners and extends her spirit and care as someone who teaches and encourages women in prison to put pen to paper and express themselves through writing. The women discuss mass incarceration, Bryan Stevenson’s Just Mercy, the lost art of letter writing, and poetry as activism. Ashley is a powerhouse of love and compassion and her intentionality and thoughtfulness extends into her skincare line as well, which is also discussed on the podcast. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 218: In Praise of Lunch Jun 03, 2019

On Episode 218 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie settle in for a discussion about slowing down and savoring life, even in the midst of the school’s end, summer’s arrival, and the never-ending spectacle of the White House. Lunch, really, is a metaphor for political activism, a fight against the patriarchy, and self-care. The women remind listeners to take a step back the perfection demanded of women by society and instead embrace their true nature during this season, whatever it may be. The sisters/co-hosts end the episode with an impassioned OBSESS SESH, during which they discuss books, television, recipes, clothing, and a questionable DIY health remedy. Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 217: Learning Cultural Competency with Huda Essa May 27, 2019

On Episode 217 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Huda Essa, an extraordinary woman who uses her training and experience to educate and influence communities across the nation as a Cultural Competency Consultant. Huda is a TEDx speaker and the author of a motivational children's book, Teach Us Your Name, which is focused on empowering children to take pride in their many identities while showing respect for themselves and others. Throughout the conversation, the three women discuss the importance of recognizing personal biases, understanding the influence of our culture, and the small yet profound steps all of us can take in order to promote a more accepting and inclusive world. Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 216: Kindness & Courage with Kristen Carbonne May 20, 2019

On Episode 216 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down the phenomenal Kristen Carbone. Kristen lost her mother to breast cancer and knew that she, too, could face the possibility of cancer head-on. In 2013, she took her life into her own hands and had a preventative mastectomy and silicone implant reconstruction. This experience changed her identity … immediately and forever. Kristin shares her story and inspires listeners with her courage, honestly, and hard-won wisdom. Check out the Mama Bear Dare website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 215: A Response to Floods & Fear May 13, 2019

On Episode 215 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie devote their Mama Bear Mini to talking about terrorism, what it is, who is committing acts of terror, and how the media, politicians, and our culture contribute to how we view the topic. It’s an interesting discussion that’s less about actual acts of terrorism and more about the way this modern threat shapes the way we think and the way we live our lives. Leslie also reports on the flooding in the Midwest. This episode is a bit intense, but as always, the sisters do their best to educate and inspire. Check out the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 214: Rachel Held Evans, 1981-2019 May 06, 2019

On Episode 213 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi re-release an episode that aired last summer with the late Rachel Held Evans. The two struggle to say goodbye to this thinker, writer, and modern-day prophet. Rachel was someone both women looked up to immensely and the sisters grieve at her passing. During this conversation, Tesi and Rachel talk about the faith, justice, and a Mama Bear's response to the world we live in. They specifically dive into Rachel's book, Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again, and wade through new answers to age-old questions like: How do you love your neighbor when you vehemently disagree with their beliefs? How do you overcome personal insecurities and be an advocate for truth and justice? What can we learn from the bible about satire, resistance, peace, and cultural disruption? Leslie and Tesi will spend the week mourning the loss of this sister and fellow Mama Bear. They hope listeners will continue to read Rachel’s books and blogs and be challenged to think about how faith and culture drive their perspective and how their response can bend toward justice, liberation, and love. Click here for complete Show Notes.

Episode 213: (S)Heroes: Sudan & She the People Apr 29, 2019

On Episode 213 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss a few headlines that have their attention lately. They spend the hour looking at politics around the globe and the ways in which women are insisting upon and leading major change. They discuss the female-led protests in Sudan where women have shown up and watched their dictator, Omar Al Bashir, step down from decades of horrific leadership, and the power that women, particularly women of color, have in the upcoming caucus and election here in the States. They encourage listeners to watch for the women around them who are leading us to more love and more compassion and do what they can to lift their sisters up and encourage positive change in all corners of the world. View complete Show Notes at the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 212: Buy the Change with Jane Mosbacher Morris Apr 22, 2019

On Episode 212 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with Jane Mobacher Morris, author of Buy the Change You Want to See and CEO of To the Market, a global company which connects consumers and businesses to ethically made products from all over the world. During the first five years of her career Jane worked in counter-terrorism at the U.S. Department of State, but after a trip to India during which she visited businesses that liberate women from the sex trade and provide a safe work environment in the artisan industry, Jane decided to make her career switch and start her own company. Leslie and Jane discuss her fascinating journey, their shared belief of the power each of us holds in our pockets books, and explore practical tips and actionable advice for becoming a more informed consumer and how to use our purchasing power for good. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 211: Mama Bears Gone Wild Apr 15, 2019

On Episode 211 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the college admissions scandal and the influence of wealth, privilege, race, and connection in accessing higher education in America. The two discuss the waste of the mama bear exhibited by the people involved in “Varsity Blues” … and ask themselves hard questions: If we had the wealth and influence, would we do the same? Are there ways in which our mama bear has gone wild in her own unique way? Has she been wasted? The women discuss ways that the mama bear can indeed go wild and how we can actively work on reigning her in when need be. They challenge listeners (and themselves!) to NOT be the ones to use our voices and our rage for those who are already at the top and who are already the benefactors of all the privilege the world offers, but rather use the mama bear on behalf of the truly vulnerable among us. For complete Show Notes visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 210: The Simple Life Apr 08, 2019

On Episode 210 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie take a break from politics and gnashing of teeth to reflect, recharge, and “get their house in order” so that they can be more effective in the passionate march toward more love and more justice. The women talk about the beauty of simplicity and the challenge of finding peace and balance as a modern-day American woman. They focus on money, media, parenting, and relationships and within each category discuss ways to simplify life in order to live with clearer intentions and meaning. The Mama Bear road to revolution is always complex and today it points inward. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 209: Life Pivots & Beating Hearts with Lisa Leonard Apr 01, 2019

On Episode 209 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Lisa Leonard, the woman behind the much-celebrated international company Lisa Leonard Designs. During this conversation, Lisa pulls back the curtain on her success and reveals that for most of her life, she struggled with perfection and self-worth … trying to be the perfect mom and the perfect wife, all while running a thriving business. Lisa shares the story of how her world crashed down around her and how through reflection, therapy, a supportive community, faith, and hard work, she is now living a life of more balance, more honesty, and more joy. These three women bring it ALL to the table and their conversation is authentic, relatable, and completely inspiring! View complete Show Notes on the MBD website.

Episode 208: Stop Interrupting Me Mar 25, 2019

On Episode 208 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the power dynamics of language in relation to gender. In an episode that critiques the culture in which we are raising both boys and girls, they share stories, statistics, and why it’s important to encourage one another and teach our daughters to stand up for ourselves in conversation. The sisters are vulnerable, passionate, and adamant about encouraging listeners to recognize the power of your own voice and use your Mama Bear strength to assert your words in the world. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 207: Pantsuit Politics with Beth Silvers & Sarah Stewart Holland Mar 18, 2019

On Episode 207 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with the fabulous women of Pantsuit Politics, Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland to talk about the importance of productive political dialogue and how we can be patient, vulnerable, and grace-filled even in the most hot-button conversations. The women discuss their new book, I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening), as well as topics that range from the Dixie Chicks to Covington Catholic High School to the importance of women talking about politics and how to do so with our kids. Listeners will love the spirited dialogue and come away better prepared to engage in the politics and policy that so crucially impact our everyday lives. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 206: Choosing Well with Laura Vanderkam Mar 11, 2019

On Episode 206 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Leslie’s personal Patron Saint of Time Management, Laura Vanderkam. A hugely successful author and expert, Laura offers listeners researched and thoughtful advice on managing the precious resource of time, setting priorities, and structuring a day, week, month, or year to experience the most love, peace, joy, and productivity possible. In a light-hearted and information-rich conversation, the women also dive into balance, women in the workplace, and parenting schedule-savy kids. Find out more on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 205: Mental Detox with Grace Estripeaut Mar 04, 2019

On Episode 205 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down for a fascinating conversation with Grace Estripeaut, a mental detox expert and all-around fascinating woman. The three jump right in to discuss Grace’s story and life’s work. Grace helps listeners with stories and practical steps to guide them to a calmer life with more clarity. Grace shares tips on how to switch off your busy mind and decompress so you can actually sleep and start the next day refreshed, how to boost your energy and improve your mood, how to find SPACE in your life, and ways to fuel your tank, encourage your vision, and stay focused on what matters most -- regardless of what’s happening around you! Listeners will be blown away by this conversation! Find out more on the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 204: On Intersectionality Feb 25, 2019

On Episode 204 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie go back to school to learn more about intersectionality. The co-hosts are earnest in their discussion and do their best to define the term, learn its history, and drive home the importance of considering interectionality in our feminism, advocacy, and march toward justice. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 203: Share Those Renegade Stories with Janelle Hanchett Feb 18, 2019

On Episode 203 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie get really real, really fast with Janelle Hanchett, founder of Renegade Mothering and author of I’m Just Happy to Be Here.The three take on the illusion of perfection, the freedom of truth, the power of sharing your story, and the hope in everyday miracles…even after trauma. The conversation is intimate, passionate, and a must-listen for anyone who needs a dose of compassion and a wallop of courage. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 202: Can A Mama Bear Get to the Good Place? Feb 11, 2019

On Episode 202 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi talk about their love of Kristen Bell, Maya Rudolph, and The Good Place. Without any spoilers, the two women discuss a quandary presented in Season 3. Can any of us really get to the good place? Are the systems in place keeping us from eternal peace? Is it even possible for a modern-day Mama Bear to be a truly “good” person whose actions reflect her heart? The two women have so many questions and they explore this idea with candor and curiosity. For good measure, the sister-co-hosts end the show with a few segments that listeners are sure to relate to. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website.

Episode 201: The World is a Comic with Dami Lee Feb 04, 2019

On Episode 201 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Dami Lee, a Seoul-born, New York–based artist who brings to life the plight of a Mama Bear with a humorous edge. Dami writes for The Verge, has drawn comics for The New Yorker, Buzzfeed, and Cosmopolitan, and writes her webcomic As Per Usual, which explores gender, identity, and immigration through her own lens. The two women discuss art and life, Dami’s upbringing and experiences, and the ways Mama Bear can be furiously engaged, but also amused by the world we share. Find complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 200: Marie Kondo is a Mama Bear! Jan 28, 2019

On Episode 200 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the Marie Kondo craze that has so many of us captivated and curious. In true Mama Bear fashion, they provide commentary on Kondo’s Mama Bear methods by acknowledging her sometimes counter-cultural method and her critique of gendered social norms and the excessive consumerism so often exercised in the Western world. The women praise Marie Kondo’s emphasis on gratitude and celebrate her quiet revolution of equality. With a small analysis of the “mental load” so many women share and talk of a little xenophobia thrown in for good measure, the women have a great time discussing the KonMarie method and the layers it entails. Visit the Mama Bear website for complete Show Notes!

Episode 199: Toxic Masculinity ... Again Jan 21, 2019

On Episode 199 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie celebrate the writers (we see you, Mama Bear marketers!) behind the Gillette Razor commercial and discuss how to talk to those in our lives who disagree or take issue with the message behind the ad. They dive into the cultural waters of toxic masculinity, once again breaking it down and analyzing the rub. How did we get here? How do we do better? How do we talk to people we love about being a woman in this world? The two women share their ideas about the commercial, discuss the government shutdown, and then tackle two listener questions, ultimately leaving listeners with a new dare for a new day. For complete Show Notes visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 198: Becoming Who You Are with Alyson Wild Jan 14, 2019

On Episode 198 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Alyson Wild, a wise and brave woman who shares earned wisdom about self discovery, living the truth of your identity, and claiming your desires. Together, the three women discuss the power of words that comfort, words that broaden perspective, and the importance of representation in literature and life. It’s a beautiful conversation between curious women who seek understanding, compassion, and hope. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 197: You're Never Too Old To Do the Scary Stuff Jan 07, 2019

On Episode 197 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down to rehash highlights from 2018, discuss the things they were thankful to live through, cast a personal and podcast vision for the New Year, and celebrate the dawn of a fresh page of the calendar. They discuss their favorite books and pop culture moments, laugh a lot, shake their fists a few times, and admit some hard truths. Ultimately, anyone listening will feel encouraged to live intentionally and be reminded that they can do the hardest things. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 196: The Other Side of the Mic with Tesi & Leslie Dec 31, 2018

On Episode 196 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie switch seats and instead of hosting the show, they are interviewed by life coach, friend, and podcast host extraordinaire Rumaisa Rahman Khawaja! The ladies love dishing about their relationship (sisters, besties, and biz partners), their marriages (they married a pair of brothers), their parenting styles (they have 8 kids between them), and their passion for hosting a podcast to inspire others to action. It’s a fun switch that will introduce listeners to the Mama Bear Dares hostesses AND keep long-time listeners entertained with new insights (you’ll learn about Leslie’s biggest fear) and observations (like Tesi’s favorite place on the planet). Happy New Year to all the Mama Bears! 2019 is sure to be the best one yet! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 195: Love & Kindness Center Stage with Candace Cameron Bure Dec 24, 2018

On Episode 195 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with real-life Hallmark movie star, 80s icon, and fierce mama bear, Cameron Candace Bure. The three women enjoy a joy-filled conversation about kindness, raising strong kids, faith, parenting, the importance of do-overs, working hard, and making room for holiday joy. Listeners will love this candid conversation with Candace and be inspired by her honest, down-to-earth approach to life and love! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 194: The Criminalization of the Poor (AKA The Holiday Episode!) Dec 17, 2018

On Episode 194 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the alarming facts pointing to the criminalization and additional hardships on America’s marginalized communities. After exploring the fees that our justice system places on the marginalized, the high cost (and inconvenience) of poverty, the additional scrutiny on the Earned Income Tax Credit by the IRS, and the outright criminalization of our country’s poor, the sisters ask listeners to think about news and the perspectives they encounter critically and to always challenge themselves to spread love and compassion out into the world … during the holiday season and beyond. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 193: Food Activism & Climate Change with Helen Defossez Dec 10, 2018

On Episode 193 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Helene Defossez, an an author and activist who leads a group of Mama Bears (les mamans ours!) in her home country of France. The three women jump into a delightful and fierce conversation about food as activism and why eating more veggies and less (or no!) meat is an act of resistance in terms of climate change. The women discuss veganism and the treatment of animals, veganism as an environmental and political practice, and vegetables as a means of improved health. Also discussed is culture and relationship to food and farming practices, compassionate living, and Tesi’s discovery of the garlic press. :-) For links and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 192: Human Tafficking with Shontell Brewer Dec 03, 2018

On Episode 192 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Shontell Brewer, an incredible woman who is a teacher and mother and a fierce Mama Bear advocate for the growing number of those trafficked in the United States and beyond. Shontell shares stories from the frontlines, provides an education into the issue of sex-ploitation and human trafficking, and offers insight and advice on how to safely navigate technology in the face of predators. The women discuss Shontell’s work as a preventionist for trafficked individuals across the nation, how her skill and passion have aligned to make the world a better place, and the truth that each of us — and all the children we encounter — have worth and that an understanding of that worth could be life-saving. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 191: Claim Your Holiday Joy with Jessica Turner Nov 26, 2018

On Episode 191 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about all things holiday. In particular, they discuss how to make room for JOY during this festive (and often jam-packed and perhaps even stressful) season. The sisters bring in expert and author Jessica Turner (Stretched Too Thin) to answer their questions about being present, being efficient, managing expectations, and finding joy (while still leaving room for the Mama Bear instinct) during the next month and beyond. Listeners will love the candid and honest conversation and the practical tips offered in this episode. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 190: Beauty Hunters with MyQuillyn Smith Nov 19, 2018

On Episode 190 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie grabs the mic and spends time talking about beauty, design, hospitality, priorities, place, and kindness with design maven MyQuillyn Smith. The women lament the American obsession with accumulating things and refuse to be “stuff managers.” In a lively conversation about all things beautiful, Leslie and Myquillyn explore the idea of how physical space impacts the Mama Bear spirit and about how we can all — should our hearts desire — achieve real, approachable, affordable design that lends our homes to joy and community. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 189: Raising Politically Active Kids (and a Midterm Election Re-Cap) Nov 12, 2018

On Episode 189, Leslie and Tesi talk about the midterm election and their quest to raise politically active kids. They celebrate the nation’s small victories, reiterate their belief that the #babiesgonnasaveus, and leave listeners with a re-cap of the Water Party, an annual event that this year raised nearly $60,000 for clean water solutions in rural Tanzania. This episode is a reminder to listeners that progress is made at a pace that is almost always slow and steady, and encourage all the Fur/Plant/People mama and papas bears out there to keep doing the hard work in the direction of love and compassion. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 188: Story Telling for Social Change with Jessica Blank Nov 05, 2018

On Episode 188 of the Mama Bear Dares, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Jessica Blank, a creator, activist, entrepreneur, and mom. As a filmmaker, playwright, director, and actor Jessica has worked Off-Broadway, on network television, and in Hollywood and her groundbreaking, multi-award-winning documentary theater work has helped shape the genre. As an activist and change-maker, she works with progressive candidates and nonprofit leaders to help them use the power of empathy and narrative to radically expand their reach. powerfully uplevel their creativity, and use narrative for social change. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 187: Cultural Appropriation Oct 29, 2018

On Episode 187, Tesi and Leslie add their Mama Bear voice to the discussion of cultural appropriation…a conversation they feel is relevant not just on Halloween but on every other day of the year as well. They discuss how to be cultural appreciators rather than appropriators, why they cling tightly to the maxim that Friends Don’t Let Friends Wear Blackface, and what makes them adamant in their belief that when you know better you do better. The sisters are candid about past mistakes and misteps, bring the research behind their current views, and challenge one another, as well as listeners, to look beyond ourselves and carefully consider the weight of each of our actions. For links and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 186: Feminist Awakening with Libby Babbott-Klein Oct 22, 2018

On Episode 186 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Libby Babbott-Klein, a producer, author, and creative director with a focus on activist and political content. Libby ran the video department for Al Gore's Alliance for Climate Protection, and launched a feminist jewelry line (Libby B.K.), and for over a decade, she has been creating content that is rooted in social change and entertainment. The women sit and talk about feminism in 2018 and explore the idea of teaching even our youngest children about gender equality. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 185: Make America Kind Again, Part II Oct 15, 2018

On Episode 185 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie re-visit the topic of kindness in America in 2018. Not only do they reiterate the importance of modeling kindness and teaching kindness to the next generation, but they also discuss how to live a healthy life of kindness. Thanks to a listener suggestion, they take a look at Brene Brown’s theory that the most compassionate people are the most boundaried and they discuss how to incorporate healthy boundaries in the Mama Bear life. Also discussed is the very real and very sobering fact that America has historically not ever been kind to certain groups of people. They acknolwedge this blindspot and vow to work even harder to steer the ship away from an undeniably sullied past and toward a kinder, gentler future for ALL people. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 184: Ordinary Places with Shannan Martin Oct 08, 2018

On Episode 184 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi and Leslie chat with Shannan Martin, a mom, writer, and advocate for those on the fringes. Shannan makes her third appearance on the podcast and she and the sisters discuss community, neighborliness, committing to relationships with those with whom you are connected by proximity, and being an everyday advocate in your corner of the world. Through their conversation, listeners are invited to reflect on the meaning of kindness, their social position in America, and the ways in which they interact with their community and the world around them. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 183: Boys will NOT be Boys Oct 01, 2018

On Episode 183 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss rape culture, toxic masculinity, the Brett Kavanaugh appointment to the Supreme Court, and why they, as fierce Mama Bears, MUST act as cultural disruptors in this moment in time. In other words, they discuss why and how the dangerous old adage “boys will be boys” and everything it stands for must be stopped. The women lament the current state of our culture, but ultimately offer tangible tips on how to talk to the kids in your life about sex, consent, and responsibility, and raise up a new generation that honors the humanity of all. For complete Show Notes, please visit the Mama Bear Dares Website.

Episode 182: Imperfect Courage with Jessica Honegger Sep 24, 2018

On Episode 182 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Jessica Honegger, a woman who is using her fierce and fiery Mama Bear to bring fair wages and empowerment to women across the globe, and is preaching the gospel of sisterhood in her wake. Jessica stops by to discuss using our voice as women to lift up others, hustling hard for the life we want, and allowing ourselves to be burdened by big questions, like, how do I respond to the suffering in this world?The three women also discuss keeping assumptions generous and gratitude at the forefront both professionally and personally, and why it’s more important than ever to show up for your sisters. It’s a lively conversation that will inspire listeners to live bigger and braver! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 181: Make America Kind Again Sep 17, 2018

On Episode 181 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie remind listeners that they refuse to let kindness die. In fact, they audaciously believe that what America needs is more kindness! The women also recognize the responsibility we have as parents raising children in our current American culture to make sure that the virtue of kindness outlasts the test of time. Because, in some spheres, kindness seems to be on life-support, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie spend Episode 181 discussing what we can do to instill this value in the kids we influence. How do we raise kind kids? It turns out, there's actually a language to kindness and it's discussed in this fun and fascinating episode! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 180: Mindset with Zoie Hoffman Sep 10, 2018

On Episode 180 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Zoie Hoffman, a mama bear who is using her talent and passion to help students thrive. The women focus their discussion on the psychology of a "growth" mindset and how we all can benefit from the practice of harnessing a growth vs. fixed view of ourselves and the world. We can also apply this psychology to the children in our lives as we hope to raise a new generation of life-long learners, another topic the women speak passionately about. Also discussed is how to avoid extending our own educational "baggage" to the children we love and how to build resiliency and grit. This the perfect back-to-school episode for anyone who has influence in a child's life or who wants to practice a growth mindset themselves. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 179: Relax & Reflect Sep 03, 2018

On Episode 179 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie celebrate big birthdays and back to school! This Labor Day Mama Bear Mini is devoted to milestones, lessons learned, and the beauty of taking the time to check in on your own life through a little time and reflection. Tesi and Leslie both share some of the pivotal lessons they've learned over the last decade, enjoy a few laughs, and encourage their listeners to mark moments, check in with friends, and love the life they've been given. Th episode is filled with sisterly advice as the women practice the reflection that they preach. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 178: Survivor: A Mama Bear Look at Domestic Violence with Autumn Miles Aug 27, 2018

On Episode 178 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with the dynamic and inspiring Autumn Miles. Autumn is a speaker, radio host, author, advocate, and survivor of marital physical abuse. The women talk about the #MeToo movement, the role of community (and church) in unhealthy relationships and divorce, and how the world can step up in supporting women in the midst of abuse. Autumn courageously shares her personal story and hard-won wisdom, and gives listeners important information on how to spot domestic violence occurring in the lives of loved ones and how to get help if it's happening to you. Furthermore, the conversation covers the broader theme of recognizing your own belovedness ... something that belongs to each of us and is up to us to claim. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 177: 10 THINGS WHITE MOMS CAN DO TO FIGHT RACISM & SPREAD LOVE Aug 20, 2018

On Episode 177 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie revisit privilege, racism, and 10 ways they believe white moms can use their privilege to fight racism and spread love. They trust that the podcast community is a safe place to express their observations, experiences, and beliefs about this topic and humbly ask readers to consider their perspective, poke holes in their theories, and promise to journey together to make a better tomorrow. Lovers of actionable steps and lists, Leslie and Tesi come up with 10 tangible ways to engage their Mama Bear in this fight. The 10 steps are listed below. For complete details and explanation, listen in! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 176: Defining Your Super Power with Dr. Zoe Shaw Aug 13, 2018

On Episode 176 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with the dynamic, wise, and absolutely delightful Dr. Zoe Shaw. Dr. Shaw is a mom to five, a psychotherapist, an author, and a radio host who is full of inspiration, energy, and fantastic advice.The sisters relish in their conversation about defining our unique super power and channeling it for the good of the world, saying 'no' in order to define priorities, setting boundaries, parenting teens intentionally, and living our best lives. The Mama Bear spirit is alive in this episode! Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear website.

Episode 175: Parenting Teens, Part Two Aug 06, 2018

On this Mama Bear Mini, Tesi and Leslie talk about parenting teenagers in 2018. In particular, they discuss equipping kids with the language they need to navigate specific pressures of teenager-hood. They dive into ways parents can help prepare kids to say no to the pressures of drugs, alcohol, drunk driving and texting while driving, and discuss the language of kindness and how we might teach our kids to use their words in the face of relationship tension. The sisters also take on societal expectations of raising teenagers and end with an always-fun and long-overdue segment:Things I Should Probably Feel Guilty About, But Don't. Check out complete Show Notes at the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 174: The Changing Self is the Living Self with Rumaisa Rahman Khawaja Jul 30, 2018

On Episode 175, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Rumaisa Rahman Kahwaja and talk about her life's journey of learning and exploration. Rumaisa constant posture is love and compassion and the sisters love and appreciate the stories she shares about her journey to self acceptance and power. Rumaisa shares how she was mothered by a mother with mental illness, but has used that part of her story to become an phenomenal mother to her own daughter. Rumaisa grew up Muslim in Lincoln, Nebraska, and shares how she shared that part of herself while living in New York and working in fashion during 9/11. Rumaisa embodies an incredible spirit and she shares her insight and wisdom on the podcast, inspiring listeners to constant growth, acceptance, and re-invention. Virginia Wolf fans will recognize Ru immediately. She's "a self that goes on changing is a self that goes on living." For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 173: The High Cost of Poverty Jul 23, 2018

On Episode 173, Tesi and Leslie discuss the high cost of being poor in America. According to the US Census Bureau, 37 million people are living in poverty in America. Because of this huge number and because of the complexities and myths surrounding America's poor, the two women dig into the research surrounding generational poverty, the small money-saving conveniences that many of us take for granted, energy inequity, the systemic underbelly of economic oppression, and the reasons why we should care. The conversation concludes with action steps and a dare encouraging listeners to pick up a small stone in their local community that will ultimately move mountains in our country and world. View complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 172: The Fragility of Power with Rachel Held Evans Jul 16, 2018

On Episode 172 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with the thinker, writer, and modern-day prophet Rachel Held Evans to talk about the faith, justice, and a Mama Bear's response to the world we live in. The two dive into Rachel's new book, Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again, as they wade through a new answer to age-old questions like: How do you love your neighbor when you vehemently disagree with their beliefs? How do you overcome personal insecurities and be an advocate for truth and justice? What can we learn from the bible about satire, resistance, peace, and cultural disruption? Ultimately, the conversation challenges listeners to think about how faith and culture drives their perspective and how their response can bend toward justice, liberation, and love. Find complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 171: JOY as an Act of RESISTANCE Jul 09, 2018

On Episode 171, Leslie and Tesi discuss embracing and embodying JOY as an act of resistance. They discuss the long history of joy in the face of oppression and encourage listeners to take active steps toward eradicating any guilt associated with experiencing joy amid suffering. After discussing a bit of psychology in cultivating joy, they share personal mantras that encourage joy, and lean on the wisdom of those who have come before us, including Audre Lorde who said "caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." The conversation concludes with the sharing of simple joys and a dare to make space for JOY as a profound nod to resistance, justice, and peace. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 170: Let's Dish with Allison Schaaf Jul 02, 2018

On Episode 170 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi dish with Allison Schaaf, an Austin-based chef who shares wisdom on meal prep and planning, turning a passion into a business, and how to maintain a healthy life balance. Listen in as Leslie reveals her version of a "hot sandwich" and Tesi loses her mind over the mention of a honey mustard glaze. The conversation is light, fun, and full of useful tips and worthwhile wisdom. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 169: Families Belong Together Jun 20, 2018

On Episode 169 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie knash teeth over the horror going on at the southwest border. With facts to back up their rage, the two women talk about the atrocity of migrant mothers and children being ripped apart at the border, about how the current administration has wrongfully used the bible to oppress, and how Mama Bears must refuse to sit back and watch it happen. The women remind listeners that without ethics, laws are just stories to tell to justify horror. They encourage Mama Bears throughout the country to do whatever is in their power to RESIST and offer tangible steps of how to do so. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 168: All Bodies Are Good Bodies with Sarah Stevens Jun 18, 2018

On Episode 168 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie are captivated by Sarah Stevens, a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and founder of The Beautifull Project, a truly extraordinary space where ordinary women are encouraged to tell the truth of their bodies, beauty, and belonging. The conversation ranges from shame to hope, from illness to health, and from obsession to freedom, and works to serve as part of a chorus of courage for women who are tired of shrinking and aim to take up spacein this world. Whether in the boardroom, in relationships, or in their own unique physical being, women listening will be inspired to accept their body, claim their innate worth, and fearlessly bring their whole selves to an often hurting world. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 167: Do No Harm Jun 11, 2018

The topics covered on today's Mama Bear Mini — international travel, international aid, and open international adoption — are nuanced and complex, as were co-host Tesi and Leslie's 15 days together in East Africa. After just having returned from an epic adventure with a group of eleven women, the co-hosts spend Episode 167 sharing the stories they learned from the men and women they met along the way, inviting listeners to consider each experience in order to learn something about the world, about humanity, and about each of us as individuals. This task of listening to learn has the tendency to open eyes and hearts to move the dial toward love and compassion and the mama bears hope to embrace it with this episode, and with every day traveled on this earth. (Special thanks to the Maasai women's choir in the village of Pangaro, Tanzania, for the music!) For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 166: A Path to Higher Healing with Tatum Drewes Jun 04, 2018

On Episode 166 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi sit down with Tatum Drewes to talk about health, healing, and helping. Not only is Tatum an inspiring woman, pioneer, and business owner who believes in helping others live their best, pain-free life, but she's also an expert in CBD oil and the medicinal properties of the hemp plant. Tatum owns Higher Healing and is generous in sharing her passion and knowledge as the hosts learn more about this natural healing phenomenon and how much it can benefit women across a country in the midst of an opioid drug crisis. Find complete Show Notes at the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 165: Summer and the War Against Manufactured Magic May 28, 2018

On Episode 165 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi dive into a topic near and dear to their hearts—the war against manufactured magic. It’s a Gladiator’s road to be sure, but today's episode tackles the idea that kids can make their own fun this summer and that women can release the pressure they may feel as moms to create constant joy, whimsy, and fun for them. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 164: A Read-Aloud Revolution with Sarah Mackenzie May 21, 2018

On Episode 164 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie sit down with the delightful Sarah Mackenzie about reading, books, and reading books aloud. Sarah is a literary match-maker, a podcast host, an entrepreneur, and mom of four who advocates for family bonding and growth via reading aloud. The three women enjoy a lively conversations about books and how time centered around books can strengthen relationships, promote kindness, compassion, and empathy, and make important memories. Sarah also gives practical tips on how to put her beliefs into practice and take a moment to defends Captain Underpants. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 163: Let's Do Better By Black Mothers & Babies: A Look at Racism in the American Healthcare System May 14, 2018

On Episdoe 163 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie begin with a look at institutional racism in the American healthcare system. They focus on Linda Villarosa's incredible article, "Why American's Black Mothers and Babies are in a Life-or-Death Crisis,"in a segment they call "We Read It, We Loved It, Let's Discuss." The two are more than troubled by what Villarosa reports. Not only are shaken by the terrible disparity in death rates between white and black babies and women, but by the fact that this disparity has everything to do with the lived experience of being a black woman in America. Leslie and Tesi talk through this information and dig into the research because they believe the way of the Mama Bear is to learn and then lean in. This episode is about seeing—seeing the struggles of others and then processing them and fighting for change AND seeing the goodness in those around us and acknowledging that beauty. Because of that, the Mama Bears end the episode with a segment called "We See You"where they celebrate the everyday acts of love and kindness put forth by the women around them. For full Show Notes, click HERE.

Episode 162: Sex, God, & Politics with Kara Haug May 07, 2018

On Episode 162 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie dig back into the archives for an interview with Kara Hoag, the founder of Grace Unbound, a resource for those seeking a comprehensive sexuality education that includes the integration of sexuality and theology and aims to wipe clean feelings of shame. The women acknowledge that God created sexual intimacy and celebrate the idea that the human body is beautiful and to be celebrated and enjoyed, and discuss the most effective ways to teach the next generation to engage in healthy and meaningful sexual activity. Through their playful and deeply honest conversation, the women discuss pleasure and the ways in which we can embrace our spiritual self and our sexual self in order to be the full, complete women we were created to be. To read full show notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 161: We're Going to Africa & Aren't Going to Save Anyone Apr 30, 2018

The Mama Bears are going on an adventure! On Episode 161 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi unpack their upcoming travels to the East African nations of Tanzania and Ethiopia. They devote this Mama Bear Mini to explaining how this two-week trip happened, what they're planning to do while in East Africa, and what they hope to accomplish while adventuring. In true Mama Bear form, they also take on the white savior complex, white supremacy, why we need to be very thoughtful when engaging in international aid, what they believed is a flawed view of volunteerism, and the dangers of short-term missions.The episode is filled with big questions ... and a lot of excitement. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 160: The Dirt & Dust of Incarceration with Whitney Bolton Apr 23, 2018

On Episode 160 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Whitney Bolton, a listener who reached out to them after viewing the documentary 13TH and then listening to the Mama Bear episode covering that documentary. Whitney is hungry to share with listeners her powerful story about what life is like for women in prison. She and the co-hosts discuss the way the systems in power treat human beings and listen to her real-life account of how the experience of life behind bars changed her and those around her. Whitney asks listeners to look at the "dirt and darkness" of our country's system of incarceration and does so by sharing powerful stories and examples from her own experience. For Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 159: Parenting Teens (and why no one is talking about it) Apr 16, 2018

On Episode 159 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the mysterious and thrilling responsibility of raising teenagers. As we've seen in the last six months, American teens are capable of organizing a worldwide march to end gun violence and yet also prone to staring at their screens for hours without any nourishment or personal contact. Teenagers are capable of tremendous amounts of love ... and slamming a door in your face. The women explore this topic with a few listener questions in mind: Why is parenting teenagers so isolating and lonely? What happens when you "love" your kid with all your heart, but you struggle to "like" them? As always, the sisters tackle these questions with great curiosity and do their best to reassure listeners with a down-to-earth exploration of the quest to know better and do better. For complete Show Notes, check out the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 158: Remaining Fierce While Facing a Storm with Alli Worthington Apr 09, 2018

Alli Worthington is an entrepreneur and author who speaks about knowing yourself and trusting a fierce faith. Like many of us, she balances her family (five sons and a husband), her work, and her social obligations. Unlike many of us, she and her family faced a difficult health crisis that left her in a sea of fear, worry, and anxiety. When this onsalught of fear caught her off guard and threatened to overtake, she chose to fight back. Now, Alli wants to help others take steps to combat worry and anxiety. Leslie, Tesi, and Alli talk about what this looks like for women today in a candid conversation about expectations, anxiety, and how we view the world. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 157: Female Friendship (We Continue to Slay, but We Dont Come to Play) Apr 02, 2018

On Episode 157 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi take a hot minute to celebrate the sisterhood! The cultural landscape is changing for women—because of women—and the ladies take some time to feast on beauty of female friendship. They talk about the unique nature of healthy friendship and discuss the ways in which Mama Bear is uniquely poised to show up over and over again for her besties. They end the episode with an Obsess Sesh segment and dare listeners to lean into their beautiful relationships—to celebrate them, nurture them, savor them, and fight for them. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website.

Episode 156: A Little Bit Braver with Valorie Burton Mar 26, 2018

On Episode 156 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with Valorie Burton, a wife, mother, and author of 11 books. Though Valorie came on the podcast to discuss her newest book: Successful Women Speak Differently: 9 Habits that Build Confidence, Courage, and Influence, the conversation ended up being about so much more. This podcast is about the difference in men and women in the workplace (and at home), an encouragement for those who get paralyzed by their fear of failure, and a reminder that what we say to ourselves matters. For complete Show Notes, visit our website!

Episode 155: World Water Day (Everything you need to know) Mar 19, 2018

On Episode 155, Tesi and Leslie get ready for World Water Day by talking about the human impact on one of our most precious resources: water. The co-hosts talk about nature, climate change, abundance, and the dangers of over-consumption. Leslie comes clean about her failed March Spending Freeze and the women drop some comprehensive knowledge about the global water crisis and the tragedy taking place right now in Flint, Michigan. Ultimately, armed with all kinds of facts and stories, the sisters come up with ways to shrink the inequality between those who live in abundance and those who live without the basic necessity of clean drinking water. Listen in! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website!

Episode 154: Period Party! with Lindsay O'Brien Mar 12, 2018

On Episode 154 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with artist and activist Lindsay O'Brien who tells her story of The Period Party she hosted in her community to astonishing results. The women discuss the cultural stigma surrounding a woman's natural cycle and how it complicates the life of under-resourced, homeless, or incarcerated women each month. Lindsay sheds light on a seemingly simple issue and encourages others to act on the spark they feel within. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 153: Mama Bear 2.0: Gun Culture & How to Deal Mar 05, 2018

On Episode 153 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie lament American gun culture, discuss the absolute need for common sense gun laws, and celebrate the fact that "the babies are gonna save us," as Tesi is prone to say. In this Mama Bear Mini, the women go back to basics with facts and vocabulary surrounding guns, dispel common myths and misconceptions, equip listeners with concise arguments as they debate the issue, and bring up tangible steps listeners to deal with the state we find ourselves. For complete Show Notes, visit mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 152: Plan B is Beautiful with Reina Glandon Feb 26, 2018

On Episode 152 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down to talk about motherhood, overcoming challenges, and teen pregnancy with Reina Glandon. Reina generously shares her story of learning she was pregnant as a junior in high school and becoming a mom to a beautiful baby girl at the age of 16. With a supportive network of family and friends, Reina graduated high school and is in nursing school, beating the odds of teen moms. Reina is funny, matter-of-fact, highly aware of the world she wants her daughter to grow up in. The three women learn from one another and discover firsthand how unexpected challenges can become unexpected blessings when the Mama Bear is engaged. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 151: Female Pain & Female Pleasure Feb 19, 2018

On Episode 151 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie once again explore sex, politics, and the #metoo movement. In this Mama Bear Mini, the women talk in particular about the nuance of gender roles and expectations in the culture we inhabit and about the discrepancy in everything from science to medicine to the general conversation between male and female sexual health and pleasure. The discussion between hosts is heated, passionate, honest, and vulnerable as the women get curious about female sexual health and pleasure, and the messages we're sending the next generation. Go to the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 150: Mama Bears & Money Management with Natali Morris Feb 12, 2018

On Episode 150 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down and talk about money, money management, investment, and the emotions that surround the topic with Natali Morris. Natali is an informed mama bear — a broadcaster, writer, speaker, and the co-founder & CFO of her own business. Previously, she was a news anchor and technology reporter for NBC, CBS, and The Today Show. The women sit around and discuss how her family of five has recently achieved financial freedom, and her mission is to empower couples and families to take control of their money, stop living paycheck to paycheck, and start building real long-term wealth. Check out complete Show Notes here.

Episode 149: Mama Bear Q & A Feb 05, 2018

On Episode 149 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi take a moment to clean out the inbox and answer a few listener questions ... and tackle a random "interview" with one another! The sisters have been sisters (in-law) for 15 years, but they have never tired of catching up and digging deep to laugh with and learn from each other. Topics span from picnicking with hummus-in-a-can to time management to embracing God-given personalities and individuals qualities. One thing the two of them know for sure: sisterhood is precious and taking the time to talk your friends is crucial to a full and joyful life. Visit the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 148: The Future is Fierce with Madison Cousins Jan 29, 2018

On Episode 148, Tesi and Leslie interview Madison Cousins, a senior in high school and budding activist. The women sit down on MLK day to discuss Madison's involvement in a campaign to rectify the disproportionate school funding facing her district. She has organized classmates, rallied her community, and faced her state and local representatives while advocating for legislative action to fix the funding inequality in an effort to ensure that ALL students have access to excellent public education. The conversation touches on the importance of listening to young adult voices and will give listeners a pulse on the state of social advocacy in high schools across America. The take-away? The babies are going to save us! For complete Show Notes, visit the MBD podcast website.

Episode 147: Screen Time Jan 22, 2018

On Episode 147 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss the place of screens in their lives and the lives of their children. The episode is filled with laughter, as well as some serious statistics surrounding screen time, an analysis of what works and what doesn't work in the lives of the hosts, and a plan for navigating the world of screens in our modern day American lives. The women try not to get overwhelmed by the technology facing American children and adolescents living in 2018, but instead come up with a game plan to encourage a healthy relationships ... with screens, but also with fellow humans. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 146: Love & Resist with Dr. Tara Cousineau Jan 15, 2018

On Episode 146, Leslie and Tesi fall in love with Tara Cousineau, PhD, clinical psychologist, meditation teacher, well-being researcher, and author of the new book The Kindness Cure: How the Science of Compassion Can Heal Your Heart and the World (available February 2018). Dr. Cousineau discusses her cutting-edge research in psychology and neuroscience and teaches simple practices of kindness that can dissolve our feelings of fear and habits of indifference. The women discuss with great enthusiasm and passion the belief that a practice of kindness can revolutionize our lives and just might save the world! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Sponsor: RXBar Kids (Promo Code: MamaBearDares)

Episode 145: Things of Beauty (A look back at the art & culture of 2017) Jan 08, 2018

On Episode 145 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi discuss their Top Ten Cultural Influences of 2017 and share the hopes they hold for the new year. The episode is filled with laughter, book/movie/music recommendations, and a bit of motivation for 2018. The main message: Take a minute to laugh with your sisters. And as we rush into 2018, remember that whomever you love, whatever you do, and wherever you go, you can live this year like a Mama Bear. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 144: On Immigration, Compassion, & Complexity with Cynthia Vanderpool Desalegn Jan 01, 2018

On this throwback episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to Cynthia Vanderpool Desalegn about immigration, advocacy, and neighborliness. Cynthia, mom to two children and an immigration lawyer, explains what it's like to be on the front lines of immigration in America. Together, the three dig into the immigration process, compassion fatigue, and the complexities of the system of immigration. Cynthia offers a look into a fascinating world, gently educating us and encouraging us to live our lives well. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 143: Nothing of Value Separates Us with Tara Livesay Dec 25, 2017

On Episode 143 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie dig back into the archives for an interview with Tara Livesay, a native Minnesotan who has spent the last 10 years living with her family in Haiti. Tara is a mother (by birth and adoption), Certified Professional Midwife, blogger, and advocate for sustainable change throughout the developing world. She and the team at Heartline Ministries spend their days empowering, educating, and encouraging women in Haiti through relational midwifery and a focus on keeping first families together.

Tesi and Leslie loved the time spent with Tara and were blown away by her vulnerability, bravery, and extraordinarily good humor. Listeners will enjoy hearing Tara's fascinating tales of worth, wisdom, and a life well-lived (in Haiti!)... and may even be inspired to think about social change and the ways that they can make waves in their own small corner of the world. For complete Show Notes, visit the MBD website.

Episode 142: Peace Out, Patriarchy! (AKA The HOLIDAY EPISODE!) Dec 18, 2017

On Episode 142 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi have a little fun with their holiday episode ... but not before discussing the election of Doug Jones in Alabama, gerrymandering, supporting Black businesses, #METOO, and the will to bid adieu to the patriarchy. After hashing out the headlines, the pair digs into two long-overdue segments: Things I Should Probably Feel Guilty About, But Don't and The Obsess Sesh. The episode ends with a dare to seek joy, laughter, and relaxation this holiday season. Cheers! For full Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 141: Loud, Bold, & Joyful with Jamie Bruesehoff Dec 11, 2017

On Episode 141 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Jamie Bruesehoff, a fierce Mama Bear ally and advocate of transgender people. Jamie shares her beautiful story of raising three children, the oldest of whom is a strong and precocious transgirl. She is unabashedly honest about her journey and her advocacy and graciously educates listeners on how to be supportive to the marginalized throughout the globe. The conversation tackles many aspects of being transgender in the United States and is tender, honest, and full of hope. Tesi and Leslie hang on Jamie's every last word as she generously unpacks what it's like to mother a transgender child, explores the ways in which we all might struggle and thrive when our expectations are not met, talks about current state and national laws protecting those in the LGBTQIA community, and opens up about her Christian response our country's much-obsessed over social issues. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabears.com.

Episode 140: Love & Chores Dec 04, 2017

On Episode 140 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and discuss a powerful TED Talk given by mama bear Julie Lythcott-Haims that left them both nodding their heads with great enthusiasm. The talk, entitled How to Raise Successful Kids Without Over Parenting, is less than 10 minutes long but drives home something that both hosts believe in their core: Our kids need to be loved and they need to do chores. Tesi and Leslie spend the episode celebrating and dissecting Lythcott-Haims theory and strengthening the message with their own research and experience. They end with a brand-new little segment they aptly titled CHORES OUR KIDS DO THAT DRIVE US RIGHT UP TO INSANE BUT WE LET EM DO IT BECAUSE #INDEPENDENCE. We think you'll love it! For complete Show Notes, visit the MBD website!

Episode 139: Parent Pioneers with Kori Reed and Mike Becker Nov 27, 2017

On Episode 139 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Mike Becker and Kori Reed, a couple with over twenty years of counter-cultural parenting experience—Mike has spent his career as a stay-at-home dad while working mom Kori has had a career spanning global companies. The conversation is delightful and insightful, and explores the duos contemporary perspective on parenting and their new book, ZigZag Parenting. Listeners will catch a glimpse of their relationship, hear honest talk about the emotional weight of their choices, explore the societal expectations of men and women, and explore the natural consequences (good and bad) of varying parenting styles under the same roof. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 138: Exhausted & Energized (A Water Party Re-Cap) Nov 20, 2017

On Episode 138 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and talk about Water Party 2017, an annual event that the two hosts throw with a group of fierce Mama Bears in their community. The party occurred in an empty warehouse space on November 11th, and after just a few days to decompress, the women discuss their collective exhaustion and appreciation, re-cap the WHY of the work they did, and dig up a few take-aways that result from planning a massive fundraising effort with a group of powerful women. Ultimately, this episode is an honest reflection and celebration. (Stay tuned to the end for a final number...and reason to celebrate!) For for more information, how to participate, and detailed Show Notes, please visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 137: Free To Be Me with Nikki Yeager Nov 13, 2017

On Episode 137 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with the delightful Nikki Yeager, entrepreneur, mother, and founder of Every Bean Boutique, a source for non-gendered clothing. The women talk about children's fashion, societal norms, and, in particular, how gendered children's clothing has come to be. It's an interesting conversation that spans the horizon; the women discuss gender norms, sustainability, and parenting in the way that feels right to you and your family. Listeners will be encouraged to consider the impact of everyday choices in purchasing and parenting, all the while giving themselves grace in each moment. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 136: Husbands, Brothers, & Kale Nov 06, 2017

On Episode 136 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, we revisit a past conversation between Tesi, Jake (Leslie's hubby) and Zach (Tesi's husband) about embracing a plant-based diet. The convo took place while Leslie was in East Africa with the NGO she contracts with, Empower Tanzania. In this one-time-only appearance of male voices on the podcast, Tesi and the pair of brothers discuss their plant-based lifestyle, offer resources for those interested in learning more, and share anecdotes about how becoming vegan has impacted their health and their lives. Finally, in a nod to the ever-present phenomena of "Mommy Guilt," they tackle "Daddy Guilt" and try to determine whether or not it truly exists. (Hint: It does!) For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 135: Treating People, Not Pain with Dr. Carrie Hardy Oct 30, 2017

On Episode 135 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi grabs the mic for a conversation with Dr. Carrie Hardy, a woman, friend, past Navy hospital corpsman, and physician who was recommended by a listener as a valuable resource to all of us. With the recent opioid crisis on our minds, Tesi and Carrie dive into pain management, healthcare in America, and treating people rather than symptoms. This episode of the podcast provides great information and personal experiences that listeners will learn from and is meant to prompt further thought about our health as individuals as well as the well being of our families. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 134: The Birds, the Bees, and Beyond (#metoo) Oct 23, 2017

On Episode 134 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the recent social media phenomenon #metoo and what it means for them as women, as people in relationship with men, and as mothers. They sift through the collective cultural response, talk about strategies to use to educate their tweens and teens, how to show up for suffering friends, and how to talk to the men in their lives about gender equality, harassment, and assault. Their deeply held belief that we can all do better once we know better is at the forefront of this episode and the two women hope listeners will listen and feel empowered by the conversations on "me too." For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 133: Progress Over Perfection in Parenting with Heather Chauvin Oct 16, 2017

On Episode 133 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with the dynamic Heather Chauvin. A mom, social worker, thought leader, podcaster, and altogether wise women. Heather's mission is to "crack women open to their deep potential and help them create the life their soul craves" and the conversation recorded in this interview reveals just that. The women talk about their journeys to motherhood, the strength we each hold within, and ultimately point to the power of mindfulness and meditation as a transformative parenting technique for all involved. The conversation is honest and hopeful— so much so that listeners will feel inspired to take back their joy in parenting. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 132: Talking Kids through Tragedy (Again) Oct 09, 2017

On Episode 132 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi find themselves once again trying to find the language to respond to the events of the world as mothers tasked with helping their children navigate life in America in 2017. The two women offer their experiences in talking to their children ranging in age from young elementary to tweenager to teens. They discuss strategies that will help parents engage their children during anxious times such as the one Americans find themselves in currently after the mass shooting in Las Vegas, after multiple natural disasters, and after Charlottesville. Finally, the women look for HOPE in the midst of heartache and explore one way to keep it alive. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 131: The Power of Proximity with Shannan Martin Oct 02, 2017

On Episode 131 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi grabs the mic and sits down with Shannan Martin, a mom, writer, and advocate for those on the fringes. Shannan makes her second appearance on the podcast and she and Tesi continue their conversation about Shannan's her book Falling Free: Rescued From the Life I Always Wanted through a discussion of community, neighborliness, committing to relationships with those to whom you are connected by proximity, and being an advocate for the voiceless when opportunities arise. Through their conversation, Shannan and Tesi will inspire listeners to reflect on the meaning of kindness, their social position in America, and the ways in which they interact with their community and the world around them.

Episode 130: Hearts A Flutter Sep 25, 2017

On Episode 130 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi do their best to lighten things up a bit. After an intense week (natural disasters, healthcare, #TakeAKnee), the sisters decide to spend the episode checking in on the lighter side of life and dare their listeners to do the same. They discuss life happenings, what's poking at Tesi at the moment, and Leslie's short foray into Native American healing. The women hope listeners will follow their lead: Grab a girlfriend, discuss the things that move you, and share stories. Doing so will give your Mama Bear the strength to carry on. For complete Show Notes, visit www.MamaBearDaresPodcast.com.

Episode 129: Grief and Goodness with Cari Roberts Sep 18, 2017

On Episode 129 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Cari Roberts, a guest nominated by a listener for her activism, love, and belief in the good. Immediately smitten by Cari's lovely personality, the hosts dive deep into her story, the challenges she's had to overcome, and how she has been changed because of them. The three women discuss everything from the grief that followed the tragic death of Cari's parents to the way we can talk to our teenagers about hard things to raising chickens in the backyard. Somehow, it's a conversation that's simultaneously deep, difficult, and an absolutely delightful. Click HERE for complete Show Notes.

Episode 128: The Privilege Pipeline Sep 11, 2017

On Episode 128 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi continue the theme of talking about education in America. On this episode, they focus on the ways in which even the most progressive and earnest among us perpetuate segregation in our public schools. It's a tricky subject, but the hosts bring their hearts...and their hours of research...to the table in order to shed a bit more light on the subject. Drawing from personal experience and many, many fantastic articles and podcasts, Tesi and Leslie continue to encourage one another (and their listeners) to pay attention to systematic racism, publicly funded injustice, and the stories of the marginalized. In doing so, they endeavor to engage their Mama Bears on the path toward justice and equality in America. Show Notes are rich with links. Find them at www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 127: Learning Differences & the Magnificent Brain with Elisheva Schwartz Sep 04, 2017

On Episode 127 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with the dynamic Elisheva Schwartz, a dyslexia researcher, mother, wife, intelligence re-definer, and podcast host. The hosts are enthralled by Elisheva's story (by third grade she was being kicked out of class and into the hallway, by fifth grade she was getting suspended, and by the time she was a junior in high school she had dropped out school all together unsure if the classroom was the place for her) and by her Mama Bear instinct to not only own and explore her experiences, but to share her fire and know-how with others dealing with learning differences and challenging school settings. Elisheva shares her expert knowledge on dyslexia, learning differences, self actualization, and holistic human flourishing, and absolutely captivates Leslie and Tesi in the process. Listeners will leave the conversation brimming with empathy, compassion, and a renewed love of humankind. Show Notes are available at www.MamaBearDaresPodcas.com.

Episode 126: Rage Against the Dying of the Light (Back to School Edition) Aug 28, 2017

On Episode 126 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the new school year, the quality of education in America, and how we can use our Mama Bear instinct for good when it comes to our school communities. As Leslie and Tesi ask difficult questions about public education, they challenge listeners to think about school (and school supplies!) broadly in terms of educating the next generation of American citizens. They discuss their findings in their informal research poll of teachers and educators and share a special Mama Bear plan in the hopes of mobilizing listeners and shining some light into the world. (The springboard for this conversation can be found HERE.) Complete Show Notes can be found HERE.

Episode 125: Shattering the Shame & Stigma of the Poor with Erin Odom Aug 21, 2017

Erin Odom grew up among the neatly manicured lawns of upper middle class America. She did everything "right" — she went to college, married the love of her life, even bought a house within their means. She never expected to end up living with her husband and three children and relying on food stamps and government assistance to make ends meet. On Episode 125 Erin shares her story with Leslie and Tesi and the three women discuss poverty in America, redefining the "good" life, and the Mama Bear response to the economic disparity present today. Listen in to this challenging and honest conversation between Mama Bears! For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 124: Bend Toward Justice - Charlottesville Aug 14, 2017

On Episode 124 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi find themselves recording on Sunday evening (just hours before the episode drops), processing the violence and hatred on display in Charlottesville, Virginia over the weekend. The two sisters offer a raw reaction to America in 2017 and try to find a way forward. As Leslie and Tesi rehash the raw emotion and extreme sadness of the weekend, they implore listeners to make the connection between overt racism and the systematic encounters that people of color face every single day in America and to amp up their outrage and pour it into social action. They offer resources and make suggestions on how to respond, listing everything from using JOY as resistance to SHOWING UP at peace rallies to DONATING to the Charlottesville NAACP or Meals on Wheels program. One thing they know for sure: They will not be silent and will not allow hate to grow. Full Show Notes are available on the MBD website.

Episode 123: Don't Die with Your Music Inside You with Lisa Norman Aug 07, 2017

Lisa Norman has always known that she is a writer and has always followed her passion — even when others discouraged her. Today she owns her own independent publishing company and on episode 123 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast she talks to Tesi and Leslie about the constantly changing book business, listening to your gut, and creating the life you were meant to live. She a shepherd of books, and on this episode, she's a shepherd of ideas and wisdom as well! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website HERE!

Episode 122: Mothering In Style with Molly Ades Jul 24, 2017

On Episode 122 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie sits down with the lovely, talented, and wise Molly Ades, a mom, designer, and woman hungry to share wisdom and a sense of community with new moms everywhere through her video series, Mothering in Style. Her cute and functional clothing line makes it possible for new moms to feel stylish and confident while nursing their child and her conversation is rich in observation and insight. Listeners will love learning about Molly and her complex views on fashion, motherhood, and living a full, beautiful life. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website!

Episode 121: Health, Hope, & How to Talk to Boys Jul 17, 2017

On Episode 121 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie take a moment during the heart of summer to connect and catch up on a few topics that have been grabbing their attention. They answer a listener question about personal growth through podcasting and share the origin story of Mama Bear Dares, discuss an article about the importance of the language we use when talking to our sons, and discuss what's cooking from each of their homes. Listen in to this Mama Bear mini and let join the conversation online! Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

Episode 120: The World Is Bigger than any one of us with Natalie Stanfield Jul 10, 2017

On Episode 120 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi & Leslie sit down with their long-last soul sister Natalie Stanfield whose incredible Mama Bear spirit prompted her to start Families for Families. Her mission is to equip and encourage parents to create an environment within their homes that communicates the values of thinking globally, caring for others, and loving out loud. The three women discuss resilience, counter-cultural parenting philosophies, and why they believe that life lived in service of others is the best way to live. Listeners will love hearing from Natalie and will step away from the episode feeling inspired to unleash their Mama Bear! For more links and complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 119: The Language of Kindness Jul 03, 2017

On the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, we refuse to let kindness die. We also recognize our responsibility as parents raising children in our current American culture to make sure that this virtue outlasts the test of time. Because, in some spheres, kindness seems to be on life-support, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie spend Episode 118 discussing what we can do to instill this value in our kids. How do we raise kind kids? It turns out, there's actually a language to kindness and it's discussed in this fun and fascinating episode. The podcast finishes with lighter fare and the co-hosts bring back the OBSESH SESH. Current obsessions range from freedom fighters to techie tools, to socks. You don't want to miss it! For links and complete Show Notes, head to the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 118: Better Starts When You Say It Does with Calvalyn Day Jun 26, 2017

On Episode 118 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Calvalyn Day, an incredible woman with a wide-range of experience in supporting families in and around schools and elsewhere. She's a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a business and family coach, and an author who uses her Mama Bear to educate and care for those around her. Calvalyn and Tesi discuss personal growth, counter-cultural parenting philosophies, and the best ways to show up and support yourself and others in your life. Listeners will love learning from Calvalyn and will step away from the episode feeling hopeful and helped. For complete Show Notes, please visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 117: Bikini Body Jun 19, 2017

"You have a bikini, you have a body. You have a bikini body." Can we get an amen? On Episode 117, Leslie and Tesi respond to a listener question about summertime, feeling comfortable in our bathing suits, and enjoying life in the bodies we were born in. The co-hosts discuss modesty, priorities, the culture we live in, and how it impacts the voice within our heads. They ask listeners to think about priorities and peel back the layers to bathing suit insecurities. What begins as a simple listener questions unfolds into a conversation about the culture we live in and a trained, thoughtful Mama Bear's response. Listen in and join the conversation online!

Episode 116: Sex, God, & Politics with Kara Haug Jun 12, 2017

On Episode 116 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Kara Hoag, the founder of Grace Unbound, a resource for those seeking a comprehensive sexuality education that includes the integration of sexuality and theology and aims to wipe clean feelings of shame. The women acknowledge that God created sexual intimacy and celebrate the idea that the human body is beautiful and to be celebrated and enjoyed, and discuss the most effective ways to teach the next generation to engage in healthy and meaningful sexual activity. Through their playful and deeply honest conversation, the women discuss pleasure and the ways in which we can embrace our spiritual self and our sexual self in order to be the full, complete women we were created to be. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 115: How to Be (and Raise) an Everyday Hero Jun 05, 2017

What makes a human being lay down her life for another? How do we respond to acts of terror? How do we raise our children to lean into love? On Episode 115, Leslie and Tesi discuss the Portland stabbings and contemplate how Mama Bears across the world might turn their anger and confusion into action in their homes and beyond. The sisters talk about what we can learn from the everyday heroes who stood up to terrorism and how we might endeavor to not only be everyday heroes ourselves, but to raise our children to love one another and the world. It's a complex topic in a complex time. The sisters don't pretend to have anything figured out, but hope to learn from the dialogue and their community of Mama Bears. For complete Show Notes, visit MamaBearDaresPodcast.com.

Episode 114: Choosing Hope After Terror with Sara Bellin May 29, 2017

On Episode 114 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi sits down with Sara Bellin for an intense conversation on terror, survival, and finding hope in an uncertain world. When Sara woke up on the morning of March 22, 2016, her life changed forever—she discovered that her husband had been a victim of a terrorist attack at the Brussels airport that occurred while she and their two daughters slept in Michigan. A mother and former expat, Sara has helped her husband recover and faced life with incredible grace and optimism despite having lived through the terrifying event. She and Tesi consider all angles of this harrowing experience: parenting, grief, terror, the human body...even how a delicious meal just might save your life. Listen in as Sara recalls the event that shook her family and shares the meaning she made from it. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 113: What Does It Mean To Resist? May 22, 2017

Are you guys feeling tired? Do you find yourself pumping your first in the air and yelling "RESIST" at your radio or news feed while making dinner? One Episode 113, Leslie and Tesi discuss the act of resistance, what it means, and how Mama Bears across the world might turn their anger and confusion into action. How do we resist policies and politics that don't align with our values? How do we resist the metaphorical death of kindness? How do we resist alienating others who disagree with us? The co-hosts break down their feelings of discontent and concern and encourage one another to action through tangible steps. The conversation is passionate, but the ultimate aim is to understand the incredibly complex range of human emotions (from anger to apathy) felt in the current climate of American in 2017, to harness those feelings to action, and to inspire the Mama Bear community to do the same. Listen in and join the conversation online! Full full Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 112: Mind Body Soul with Ashanti Johnson May 15, 2017

On Episode 112 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Ashanti Johnson, the incredible force behind 360 Mind Body Soul. A wife, mother, and successful business owner and leader in the mindfulness movement, Ashanti dives deep into a conversation with Tesi and Leslie about the layers upon layers of a healthy, full life. The women speak candidly about health not just in terms of weight, but with a nod toward spirituality and personal growth. The conversation is honest, thoughtful, and will inspire listeners to be grateful for all they've been given and motivated to live their best life — mind, body, and soul. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Epiosde 111: How She Does It May 08, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini podcast episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie grab the mic, pour some coffee (Leslie) and tea (Tesi), and settle in for some sisterly banter. They share a listener story of a woman who was changed profoundly by motherhood and celebrate her transformation, discuss the tragic murder of Jordan Edwards, and encourage one another to push the boundaries of their Mama Bear to cover the vulnerable—no matter what they look or where they come from. Their discussion of what's happening in America, the militarization of our police, and how our Mama Bear might respond is vulnerable, honest, and trusting of the safe space they've carved out in the Mama Bear community. They end the podcast with a discussion of Leslie's new favorite book: I Know How She Does It. Leslie shares excitement over the book, her impressions, as well as some takeaways from author Laura Vanderkam's research and reflection that may be applicable to all of us. Join the conversation online and check out complete Show Notes HERE.

Episode 110: Remembering What You're Worth with Michele Cushatt May 01, 2017

On Episode 110 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michele Cushatt, a wife, mother, and successful author, speaker, and woman unafraid to dig deep in order to uncover life's treasures. Michele's new book, I AM: A 60-day Journey to Knowing You Are Because of Who He Is, explores the soul-deep journey that individuals might embark upon when seeking to discover their true self and encourages women to uncover and embrace the beautiful and unique way that they were made and then cling to the discovery of their real, true self during moments of insecurity. Michele and Tesi speak candidly about the ways in which grave illness prompts big questions as Michele shares how a brutal bout with cancer changed her life and listeners will be inspired by a conversation filled with hard-earned wisdom and an abundance of hope.

Episode 109: 13TH Apr 24, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk about Ava DuVernay's powerful 2016 documentary 13TH. The two believe everyone should view this thought-provoking, truth-telling, shocking and important film and do their best to encourage listeners to acknowledge its premise: that mass incarceration is modern-day American slavery. Leslie and Tesi discuss highlights of the documentary and emphatically debrief with one another about what they learned. The episode begins with bringing the listener up to speed on the 13th amendment and the moments throughout history (recent history included) that have led to where we land today, in a country that holds 5 percent of the world's population and one-quarter of the world's prisoners, the majority of whom are men of color. The sisters then list a few takeaways that they hope will stick with them (and with listeners) in the coming weeks and months so as not to forget the scope of the problem of mass incarceration and the privatization of prisons that society faces. They end the podcast with a series of suggested responses, encouraging listeners to not only watch the documentary themselves but then be brave in their response. Complete Show Notes are available on the Mama Bear Dares website. Listen in and join the conversation online!

Episode 108: Learning the Hard Stuff DURING the Hard Stuff Apr 17, 2017

On Episode 108 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie sits down with Lisa Leonard, a wife, mother, and successful career woman battling Stage 3 breast cancer. Lisa is beyond generous as she shares the story of her diagnosis, the battle for her health, and the state of her relationships in the midst of sickness. She shares her story with the hope that listeners will will benefit from her truth—that they'll make themselves a priority, that they'll be religious about doing a monthly self-check breast exam, and that they'll keep their girlfriends close. Through their conversation, Lisa will inspire listeners with her upbeat spirit, her hope, and the wisdom she's gained from the battle she's fighting. For complete Show Notes, visit Mama Bear Dares online.

Episode 107: Seasons, Strokes, & Snakes Apr 10, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk about health, specifically, strokes in women. When Leslie was 26, she suffered a small stroke that changed the trajectory of her life and Tesi and Leslie discuss the incident with the hope of encouraging women to learn the signs of a stroke and to pay attention to their bodies. The two also answer a listener question about the essence of the Mama Bear and how she might emerge while doing the important (and frankly exhausting) work of raising young children. The episode ends with a few laughs and a few truth bombs in the segment Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About, But Don't. Listen in and join the conversation online! For full Show Notes, please visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 106: When the Earth Shakes Underneath You Apr 03, 2017

On Episode 105 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi grabs the mic and sits down with the fabulous Shannan Martin, former Flower Patch Farm Girl and current mom, writer, and advocate for those on the fringes. Shannan recently released a book called Falling Free: Rescued From the Life I Always Wanted and the two women discuss the book's major themes, which include rethinking the American Dream, giving up the comforts of a solidly middle class life and moving to an under-resourced area, committing to relationships with those to whom you are connect by proximity, and being an advocate for the voiceless when opportunities arise. Through their conversation, Shannan and Tesi will inspire listeners to reflect on their social position in America and the ways in which they interact with their community and the world around them. View complete Show Notes at www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 105: The Orgasm Gap Mar 27, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie grab the mic and talk through several ideas and concerns, namely, The Orgasm Gap. The sisters knew that women were paid less in the workplace, but the rewards differ in bedroom as well? This required some conversation. In a lively We Read It, We Loved It, Let's Discuss, the women talk about the article entitled Straight Women Are Having Fewer Orgasms Than Everyone Else and endeavor to figure out why this is so and encourage plentiful orgasms for all. The sisters also spend time pointing out the goodness and hope in the world with one of their favorite segments, WE SEE YOU! They share observations of what they've seen in their own lives and celebrate small acts of bravery and love. The episode ends with an OBSESH SESH in which Tesi and Leslie mention what they're currently loving and leave listeners with a dare for braver, more joyful living. Head to the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes!

Episode 104: Provoking People to Good with Heather Avis Mar 20, 2017

Tesi and Leslie were delighted to talk with Heather Avis, a mother, author, and advocate, on Episode 104 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast. Heather's debut book, The Lucky Few, comes out this month and the three women found instant rapport as they discussed writing, travel, everyday miracles, and raising children. Heather is a mom to three kids, two of whom have Down Syndrome, and in addition to her role of meal-maker and child-rearer, she is a writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for her children—and all children—with special needs. The women bond over broken hearts for those living in the margins and share an impassioned Mama Bear belief in stepping up for the underdog. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 103: World Water Day with Becky Straw Mar 13, 2017

On Episode 103 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Becky Straw, co-founder and CEO of The Adventure Project (TAP), shares the empowering work of her organization in the battle towards worldwide justice and equality. Becky, who has been a major player in international aid for over a decade, talks about what her nonprofit is doing to ensure clean water to those who go without and shows us how she has engaged her Mama Bear in battle. Tesi and Leslie listen as Becky shares the origin story of TAP, tells inspiring stories from the field, provides research and observations on global needs and reality, and reveals the importance of the people who tend to be most supportive to the work of TAP. Can you guess who that might be? MOMS and Millennials, of course! Listen in to this Mama Bear Dares episode to be inspired by Becky's heart for social justice and consider joining her this World Water Day! Read complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 102: See the World with New Eyes with Carmen Sagnonvi Mar 06, 2017

One Episode 102 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Carmen Sognonvi, founder and publisher of the beautiful and information-rich online destination for luxury family travel, Top Flight Family, shares her belief in traveling with kids. Carmen joins Tesi and Leslie in a discussion of the eye-opening power of traveling with children (whether abroad or in your own state or country), the sense of adventure and curiosity travel nurtures, and the value of time spent together outside your everyday environment. The women discuss the beauty of exploring different places, people, and culture with kids in tow, discuss the practical tips for making it happen, and dive into the layers of race, gender, economic privilege, and family make-up in the travel sphere. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 101: Overflowing Wisdom from the Mama Bear Tribe Feb 27, 2017

It's an all-out celebration! Tesi and Leslie take a moment to look back over their first 101 (!) episodes and appreciate all the incredible women who have shared wisdom, knowledge, perspective, and laughs at the microphone over the last year. What an amazing group of women!! The hosts marvel over their good fortune, reminisce about starting the podcast nearly one year ago, look forward to future episodes and growth, and end with a few fun segments, one that Tesi lovingly refers to as "Dreamweaver" and, finally, an "Ask Us Anything" with a question from a reader that has the hosts diving deep for wisdom. Sign up for the Mama Bear Newsletter and read complete Show Notes at the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 100: Courage Work with Esther Emery Feb 20, 2017

On the 100th (!) episode of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Esther Emery, author of the beautiful memoir What Falls From the Sky, about motherhood, womanhood, and engaging the Mama Bear in summoning the courage to do what is right for us as individuals. The women discuss what life is like without digital distraction, where personal validation comes from, and recognizing and overcoming the obstacles that keep us from being our very best selves. Leslie and Tesi adore the book and the conversation and think listeners will be fascinated by Esther's story and her wisdom. Listen in as the women unpack What Falls From the Sky and revel in a fantastic episode 100! For full Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website!

Episode 99: Winter Survival Guide Feb 13, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk about the Danish tradition of the "Hygge" as a means of not just surviving winter, but embracing the season and all of its gifts. They extol the benefits of fire and throw blankets in a way that ultimately prepares each of us for action and social change. Hygge sounds a lot like self care, and Tesi and Leslie discuss it's value in their 99th(!) podcast. The episode ends with a rare Pop Culture segment in which Tesi and Leslie spend a bit of time deconstructing all things Super Bowl and the episode ends with a Mama Bear wrap-up and a dare for intentional rest and better living! Full Show Notes are availabe on the MBD website, where you can also sign up for the newsletter!

Episode 98: In the Room Where it Happens with Kate Segal Feb 06, 2017

On Episode 98 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi grabs the mic and sits down in the living room of her new home in her new town and talks to Kate Segal, a mom, spouse, friend, life-long public servant, and former member of the Michigan House of Representatives. What does it take to be a successful politician at the state level? How was she able to mother and serve simultaneously? What's day-to-day life in politics like? How can we, as engaged Mama Bears, make sure our voices are heard? These are just a few of the questions Kate answers as Tesi dives deep into a conversation about democracy and civic responsibility. Regardless of political leanings, listeners will find the honesty and optimism of Kate to be refreshing and her life in the trenches to be fascinating! Full Show Notes can be found at www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 97: BUSY is my DRUG Feb 01, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie make an announcement about the podcast, update listeners on Leslie's health scare, and engage in a lively and honest conversation about the epidemic of busyness that they believe has taken over in the Western world. The women lament the pressure they feel to perform and the risk of wrapping individual worth with individual production. Leslie talks about how BUSY has been like a DRUG to her over the last year and about how she's learning to slow down and be better. As is often true, the new year is the perfect time to evaluate your relationship to what you give your time to and where your priorities lie. The sisters-in-law hope that listeners will find some reassurance as they share their journeys and will join the conversation on line. The episode ends with a sobering story in the segment So What Happened Was... and then lightens up a bit with a Mama Bear wrap-up and a dare for braver, better living. For complete Show Notes and to sign up for the Mama Bear Newsletter, visit our website!

Episode 96: Why (not) me? with Devon Schaaf Jan 30, 2017

On Episode 96 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie sit down with Devon Schaaf to talk about mission, motherhood, and the indescribable grace that Devon has shown the world after losing an infant and a nearly full-term baby. The honesty, optimism, and quiet fortitude that Devon reveals during this interview will inspire listeners to reflect on their own lives as well as the incredible resiliency of humanity. Tesi and Leslie loved getting to know this remarkable Mama Bear who turned her grief into a salve for others and know that listeners will too! For full Show Notes, visit our website!

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Episode 95: Post-March Mama Bear Jan 25, 2017

One of the largest marches in our country's history happened over the weekend and co-hosts Tesi and Leslie spend Episode 95 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast discussing its meaning for the Mama Bear community. The women spend this mini episode talking about who participated, why they participated, the positives, the backlash, and, perhaps most significantly, what a Mama Bear can do now that the march is over and the real work begins. The hosts hope that listeners of all political orientations will take the time to listen to the voices around them and to carve out space and time to think about their relationship to America and the ways in which they might take action (even if it's nerve-wracking or falls out of a typical comfort zone) to make the world a more loving and compassionate place. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 94: I'd Rather Not Yell with Randi Rubenstein Jan 23, 2017

Have you ever wanted to reach out to a parenting coach or take a class on how to be a better parent but just not been able to find the time or make the commitment? On Episode 94 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie spend an hour with parenting coach Randi Rubenstein and learn all kinds of new parenting tips and tricks. Throughout the interview, Randi offers buckets of advice on how to improve your parenting game. As an author and coach, Randi helps parents stay calm and think clearly during triggered moments with their kids and to change unhealthy patterns, including ones that were passed down through generations of their family. It’s an enlightening interview that will leave listeners with new, practical parenting tools...and a taste for more advice from Randi! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website!

Episode 93: Minimalist Parenting Jan 18, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk about minimalism and how to intentionally live with less stuff ... even with a big family or kids in tow. Prompted by the new year, Tesi's impending move, and the viewing of Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things, Tesi and Leslie talk about their own consumer habits, both the good and the bad. Together, they brainstorm ideas on how to live a lifestyle free of over-consumption, how to teach children to value human beings, relationships, and interactions over the quest for more stuff, and how to embrace this counter-cultural way of life when it constantly requires swimming upstream. The new year is the perfect time to evaluate your relationship to your things, and to possibly purge, or at least pick up a few new habits. The co-hosts admit that they are nowhere close to figuring out the right balance, but are ready to learn. They conclude the episode with a segment called The Struggle Bus, admitting all the ways that they value, yet fail at, this important idea, and ask listeners to chime in on how they board the struggle bus with their own consumer habits, triumphs, and failures. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 92: Success Leaves Clues with Tatiana Amico Jan 16, 2017

On Episode 92 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Tatiana Amico, a health coach who works to empower women to take control of their health and life. Tatiana is generous with advice and offers listeners great tips and tricks, drawing from her own experience and expertise. Tatiana reveals her past as a yo-yo dieter and negative thinker who struggled with work, her relationship to food, and anxiety and depression. Once her son was born, Tatiana’s Mama Bear came out in full force and she set out to change her lifestyle and do the work she felt most called to do. The three women discuss the ways that Tatiana began taking control of her life, learning the practical tools that she employed to leave diets behind and stop making excuses, building a successful business, and embracing a life she wants to live. Tatiana, Tesi, and Leslie spend their time focusing on the how-to behind Tatiana’s mission and the ways in which we can all stop complaining, start taking action, and love ourselves completely. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 91: The Reason Behind the Resolution Jan 11, 2017

On this Mama Bear Mini episode, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk about the reason behind your new year's goals and resolution. As a personal trainer and fitness professional, Tesi has observed countless New Year weight and fitness goals and has turned what she's witnessed into a few practical steps that she has found must be in place in order for success to be had. The women talk about the basics like working out and eating, but they also dive into meditation and therapy, the need to fail before rising strong, the power of positive self talk, and the importance of finding a community of people invested in health. Finally, Leslie gets vulnerable and tells the story of her current health journey and how she is currently wading through a health reality that has shocked and scared her. The women process all of this and then leave listeners with a resolution: You are in control of your health and destiny. Pay attention to your body and nurture it well. Why? Because at their core, Tesi and Leslie believe that every single one of their listeners is worth great health, a strong mind, and a live lived to its fullest. For full Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardares.com.

Episode 90: Family First with Natalie Hanson Jan 09, 2017

Natalie Hanson is a mom of five, a blogger, a woman passionate about ensuring all of Tulsa, Oklahoma is fed and taken care of, and a young woman from Georgia who married young...to Taylor Hanson. (Yes, that’s one of THE Hanson brothers). One of Tesi and Leslie’s all-time favorite guests, Julie Lyles Carr, recommended “one of her favorite people in the history of all time” and after listening to the conversation that takes place with Natalie, you’ll be able to see why. Natalie, Tesi, and Leslie dive into marrying and mothering young, involving kids in community service, teaching sons and daughters to “show up,” and taking note of what’s going on in your own backyard. As always, Leslie and Tesi highlight the incredible work their guests are doing and hope listeners take away nuggets of love in action, as all of us journey toward understanding and living our best lives! (This episode also includes The Obsess Sesh!) For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 89: Creating Your Family Brand Jan 04, 2017

On Episode 89 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi and Leslie get practical. As a family unit in a complex world, they know that listeners are just like them...they’re continually evolving and redefining who they are and where their values lie. How do we identify those values and live them out on the daily? How do we express our values as a family? One way is through the creation of a “family brand.” Tesi and Leslie follow cues from Bruce Feiler’s The Secrets of Happy Families and dive into how to make a family brand. Similar to a mission statement, a family brand is a motivator when obstacles mount and articulates success in times of celebration; can help parents make decisions in moments both big and small; and is easily repeatable and ultimately can unite your household and serve as a reminder of what you hold dear. The Mama Bears love the promise that the new year brings and today’s episode will follow the theme of new beginnings and narrow in on how our intentions of lovingkindness might play out as a family unit. Be sure to listen in as Tesi and Leslie reveal their own family brands and help you create your own! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 88: It's Never One Person's Work with Tabitha Mparmira-Kaguri Jan 02, 2017

Like many of us, mom, friend, PhD candidate, and activist Tabitha Mpamira-Kaguri has become consumed with by the brokenness of the world. Unlike some, she’s experienced it firsthand, and, heroically, is working for redemption—not just for herself but for victims of sexual assault living in America AND those a world away in sub-Saharan Africa. On Episode 88 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi, Leslie, and Tabitha talk about what it looks like to turn heartache and rage into action and healing. They deep dive into the treatment of women worldwide, the dominance of the pervading rape culture, and the ways in which we can turn the tide toward dignity and equality. The conversation is far-reaching, and will ultimately inspire listens to be open to the pain of the world and engage their Mama Bear to work for justice in ways big and small. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardares.com.

Episode 87: Quality Time is a Love Language Dec 21, 2016

In the final Mama Bear Dares episode of 2016, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi celebrate the season and talk through holiday preparations and expectations. The women reminisce about the ups and downs of 2016, highlight the memorable moments, and plan ahead with great hope for 2017. They also read listener comments in response to Episode 85's segment#imartyrsohard and find great relief in the fact that so many listeners came forward over the last week as Mama Bear martyrs! Tesi and Leslie wrap up this holiday mini episode with the ever-popular Obsess Sesh and encourage listeners to enjoy themselves and their families over this magical stretch of time. The Mama Bear Dares podcast is seven months in and the hosts couldn't be more grateful for YOU and your support! Happy Holidays! For full Show Notes, visit our website!

Episode 86: Joy w/A Side of Desperation with Andrea Levoff Dec 19, 2016

On Episode 86 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi go deep with Andrea Levoff, The Dope Ass Mom. Andrea is a writer, performer, stand-up comic (she's a Second City alum!) and mom to two. She's created a dope-ass web series that is purely comedic (and so, so funny!), but her message is earnest and aims to teach moms to find more joy in parenting. In the conversation between the three women, Andrea reveals her wisdom and shares her ongoing journey toward truth. The three women discuss what we can learn from our children, how we can guide them in their development into kind, loving human beings, how we can draw from our partner's strengths, how to let go of expectations and embrace the present, and how to ultimately find joy in the journey. Check out complete Show Notes at www.mamabeardares.com.

Episode 85: Holiday Survival Guide (Mama Bear Style!) Dec 14, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, Leslie and Tesi discuss ways to maintain sanity and fully enjoy the holiday season. They come up with a short, snappy list of ways that they’re planning minimize the stress of the season and celebrate its joys instead. The hosts encourage listeners to allow this season to be one of managed expectations, embracing “okay” (rather than perfectionism!), and allowing a pace that’s relaxed enough to truly enjoy the special moments this season brings. In doing so, Tesi and Leslie remind listeners that in order to outwardly spread their love in the world, they need to fill up on love themselves. Finally, the co-hosts debut a new segment called I Martyr So Hard (#imartyrsohard) in which they examine the posture of a modern-day martyr and fess up to times they’ve entered martyr-mode. You won’t want to miss it! For complete Show Notes, head to the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 84: Holding Up the Mirror of Sanity (Youth Sports Ed.) w/Margot Starbuck Dec 12, 2016

On Episode 84 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie converse with Margot Starbuck about a topic back by popular demand: Youth Sports Culture. Margot is the author of the book Overplayed: A Parent's Guide to Sanity in the World of Youth Sports and offers hosts and listeners great insight and information about the current landscape of youth sports in America and encourages us to engage our Mama Bear for the sake of our kids and the American psyche. This episode of full of great statistics and research, helpful anecdotes, and wisdom that applies to parenting athletes and non-athletes alike. Read complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website!

Episode 83: Food as Activism Dec 07, 2016

On Episode 83 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about food as activism. It’s a topic that’s relevant every single day, but because there is a lot of focus on feasting and eating this time of year, the hosts dig deep into how Mama Bear can be engaged as she cooks and eats this holiday season. The co-hosts focus on food as a political act of justice and the act of eating for the larger good. Their message isn’t new—social activists worldwide see food as a means for creating social equality—but their lively conversation focuses on the areas specific to Mama Bear and how she might use the table as a place for social change. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website.

Episode 82: Dauntless and Dear with Adina Rosenberg Natanson Dec 05, 2016

On Episode 82 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie give listeners a conversation with Adina Rosenberg Natanson, a woman who is a wife, a mama to two, and the founder of PrenatalFit, a gym in the Lincoln Park neighborhood of Chicago designed for women before, during, and after pregnancy. Over her years in the fitness industry, Adina has established a safe and powerful place for women that aims (much like the podcast) to empower, inspire, and provide unwavering support. The three women talk about the healthy and helpful community that she has built, about the unique experience of pregnancy and birth, and about how to listen to your gut and follow through with your instincts—even when others haven't yet embraced your vision. It’s an inspiring conversation with Anita, a woman who listeners are sure to find to be simultaneously daring and darling. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 81: Chocolate & Chips: Talking to Girls on the Precipice of Puberty Nov 30, 2016

On Episode 80 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi gave listeners an intimate conversation about shame and self worth with author, mother, and all-around-wise-woman Aubrey Sampson. Based on listener feedback, it was clear that the themes of this podcast resonated: Shame. Our female bodies. How we can love them better and how we might teach our daughters to be empowered in their skin and have a healthy outlook on the human body they were born in. These themes are crucial and the women behind the podcast quickly decided they deserve a follow-up Mama Bear Mini. On Episode 81, Tesi and Leslie dive deeper into the cultural relationship to the female body and give listeners suggestions on how to promote healthy body image in their home. The two base their conversation on Tesi’s powerful blog post, “An Open Letter to My Daughter on the Precipice of Puberty,” and discuss body image, the beautiful attributes of femininity, the power of body language, sex, intimacy, and womanhood, all in hopes of shining the light on shame and furthering the conversation. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 80: Shame is Loud, Truth is Louder with Aubrey Sampson Nov 28, 2016

Like so many of us, writer, speaker, mom, and activist Aubrey Sampson has been consumed with shame from an early age. On Episode 80 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi, Leslie, and Aubrey talk about what it's like to be a woman in America and the forces at play in our culture that make so many of us feel "less than." Why do so many of us live with shame? How can we combat it in our lives and value ourselves for the beautiful beings that we are? The three women discuss Aubrey's book, Overcomer: Breaking Down the Walls of Shame and Rebuilding Your Souland begin to tackle the hard but essential work of rebuilding our souls and living free from the shackles of feeling like we're not enough. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 79: How to be a Compassionate Consumer this Holiday Season Nov 23, 2016

On Episode 79 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about how we can exercise compassionate consumerism this holiday season. The hosts give practical tips on ways to engage the Mama Bear to create ripples of hope and justice in what is typically a very intense season of buying. We believe a good Mama Bear can give their families and their children great gifts and a magical season without exploiting those producing and manufacturing, and all the while remaining true to their values and principles. The waves of our culture are very strong this time of year so the hosts hope to offer a bit of a primer and encourage listeners to lead with love as they exercise their purchasing power this holiday season. For links and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 78: I Can & I Will with Nikki Schultz Nov 21, 2016

On Episode 78 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to the dynamic Nikki Schultz about growing up, living a life of celebration and significance, and taking time to check on the spirit that's within to make sure she's walking through the world in the way she was designed to. Nikki, a national fitness trainer, international presenter, group fitness maven, and an inspiration to thousands, took a break from her work while the co-hosts were in Chicago and Tesi and Leslie love the time they spent together. In Nikki they found a woman who uses her platform, her body, and her voice to motivate those around her to appreciate their own bodies and everything that we as individuals are capable of. Read complete Show Notes at www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 77: Fall Fashion with Yasi Back Nov 16, 2016

On Episode 77 of the Mama Bear Dares podcasts, Tesi and Leslie speak to stylist, fashion blogger, and entrepreneur Yasi Back about the latest trends. All three agree that it's fun to dress up and look cute, and Yasi delivers tips to moms who want to look good but who might not have the brain space for a detailed wardrobe. The conversation is light and fun...and offers a sneak peek of the dream that Yasi is following! Listen in for a great conversation and to be inspired by Yasi's fashion know-how and her leap of faith! For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 76: Resilient Souls with Cathy Lander-Goldberg Nov 14, 2016

On Episode 76 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Cathy Lander-Goldberg, a mother and photographer who this month will open a new exhibit in St. Louis called the Resilient Souls Project, which encourages the inner strength in every woman through portrait and writing. The three women discuss culture, resiliency, body image, and the power of healing through art. Tesi and Leslie listen as Cathy enthuses about her work, her care for vulnerable women, her love of photography, and about her 25 years of work with children, adolescent females, and adult women. Cathy, who is also a licensed social worker, uses photography and writing to promote self-awareness and self-expression, a topic of conversation that listeners will be fascinated by. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 75: Politics: Don't Let Them Paralyze, Allow Them to Propel Nov 11, 2016

Regardless of the vote that you cast on Election Tuesday (which was two days ago, as of this podcast release), you're likely shaken by the months and months of drama and rhetoric leading up to the day and perhaps deeply surprised by the result. On Episode 75 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie discuss Tuesday's election honestly and with great vulnerability in hope of sorting through their own feelings, fears, and pain, all the while encouraging listeners to heal and move through this period with grace and love. Ultimately, they believe that Mama Bear is having her moment. She might be angry. She might be baffled. She might be thrilled or surprised by her own feelings. This podcast encourages all of us — no matter who you voted for — to access their Mama Bear for good. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardares.com.

Episode 74: Faith, Love, & Fidelity with Katherine Willis Pershey Nov 07, 2016

On Episode 74 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Katherine Willis Pershey, a mother, pastor, thinker, and author, about what it's like to feel the temptation of an extra-marital affair and then process that temptation within her relationship to her husband, her children, her church, and the larger world. The three women—each of whom has been married to their respective spouses for approximately 14 years—discuss our culture and how it impacts the way we live out our vows. Tesi and Leslie listen as Katherine opens up about her near-infidelity, about the hard work of marriage and the beauty and challenge of a sacred covenant, and the healing and growing process that resulted in an honest, candid book called Very Married: Field Notes on Love and Fidelity. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 73: 10 Things White Moms Can Do To Fight Racism & Spread Love Nov 02, 2016

On Episode 73 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie discuss privilege, racism, and 10 ways they believe white moms can use their privilege to fight racism and spread love. They trust that the podcast community is a safe place to express their observations, experiences, and beliefs about this topic and humbly ask readers to consider their perspective, poke holes in their theories, and promise to journey together to make a better tomorrow. Lovers of actionable steps and lists, Leslie and Tesi come up with 10 tangible ways to engage their Mama Bear in this fight. The 10 steps are listed below; for complete details and explanation, listen in! For complete Show Notes, visit our website!

Episode 72: Living & Loving Local with Amanda Simkin Oct 31, 2016

On Episode 72 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Amanda Simkin, the woman behind the popular Chicago blog, Queen of the Land of Twigs and Berries. Amanda is a thirty-something coffee and wine drinker raising two boys with a simple goal of exploring and enjoying her hometown through the eyes of her children and helping the new mamas who look to her for parenting advice and adventure. Together, the women talk about what makes place an important element of who we are as people, about the importance of re-discovering and nurturing our true selves, and why Amanda believes that an engaged Mama Bear lives local. It's a delightful conversation that reflects life in the city ... it's boisterous and exciting, but holds deep pockets of wisdom, connection, and love. For full Show Notes, please visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 71: Let's Lighten Up Oct 26, 2016

It's been getting a little hot in here. Tesi and Leslie have recorded a string of Mama Bear Minis focusing on the hard work of marriage, on the rampant rape culture prevalent here in the U.S.A., and how racism plays out in our homes and our responsibility as Mama Bears to do our best to squash it. Because of the serious nature of these episodes, the hosts decided they needed a little break from the intensity and talk about lighter fare on Episode 71, specifically, books, television, and food. Listen in as they do their best to embrace a little levity. For entire Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 70: You Deserve to be Healthy & Well with Dr. Nicole Rankins Oct 24, 2016

On Episode 70 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to OB-GYN and health coach Nicole Rankins about pregnancy, birth, and the long road of taking good care of ourselves throughout the many stages of life. The women dive into the state of healthcare in the United States of America and grasp a practical understanding of the nuances through Nicole's experience and examples. The three spend the hour discussing they why and how of healthcare and learn from Dr. Rankins as she advocates for women becoming the expert on their own lives. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardares.com.

Episode 69: How to Survive 14 Years of Marriage Oct 19, 2016

It's one thing to stand at the altar dressed in your very best and tie the knot with your beloved in front of family and friends. It's another to live with your betrothed day in and day out for the next 14...25...50 years. On Episode 69 of the Mama Bear Dares podcasts, the hosts speak honestly about what marriage requires of two individuals hoping to make a life together. They sort through gender differences, how a union can become complicated by changes (jobs and kids, to name a few), and the enormous and unavoidable impact that the American culture has on the way we marry and (do our best to) stay married. It's a complex partnership that can be beautiful, but that is not always all that sexy. Co-hosts Leslie and Tesi tackle these ideas and then jump into a special marriage edition of a fan-favorite: Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About But Don't. Check out the Mama Bear Dares website for complete Show Notes!

Episode 68: Get it Together with Eirene Heidelberger Oct 17, 2016

On Episode 68 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk to Eirene Heidelberger, the CEO and founder of GITMom, a full-service parent coaching and advice company that endeavors to empower moms by offering effective parenting techniques and help with common parenting battles. Though Eirene has been frequently featured in the national news media, on today's podcast the women get intimate while sitting down in Eirene's home as she opens up to discuss her childhood, her struggles with new motherhood, her frustrations and her hopes, and the way she found her way to becoming the thriving woman, mother, and business owner that she is today. Here's a secret: very few of us arrive at motherhood with complete understanding and a full knowledge of what it will be like. Sometimes we simply need a hand to hold or a tribe to join in order to catch glimpses of light. Eirene, Tesi, and Leslie hold a discussion that will contribute to that sunshine...offering hope, understanding, and a few practical tips on life in the trenches. Complet Show Notes can be found HERE.

Episode 67: Rape Culture (and Why We Can't NOT Talk About It) Oct 13, 2016

On today's special episode, Tesi and Leslie explore a topic that they touched in Episode 30 but believe warrants further discussion because of recent news events. On this episode, the co-hosts discuss rape culture—what it means, how it’s perpetuated, who's at fault, how it plays out in our lives, and the repercussions for us as women and moms. Ultimately, the two hope that by engaging in the conversation in the safe space of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, they will encourage listeners to engage their Mama Bear and help move the dial forward toward a safer world. Main points include the following. Head to the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website for complete Show Notes. A definition of rape cultureA discussion of what rape culture has been and how it continues to be perpetuatedThe repercussions — on all of us — for living in this cultureHow moms of boys can help squash rape cultureHow moms of girls can help squash rape culture

Episode 66: You Should Do That! 5 Steps to Pursuing Your Passion Oct 12, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi announce the winner of the bundle of Leslie's new release, Mama Bear's Manifesto: A Moms' Group Guide to Changing the World. After celebrating this listener and her thoughtful comment, the women discuss Leslie's publishing journey in depth, pulling out five steps that might make listeners a bit closer to publishing their book, pursuing their passion, or following their dream. The hosts encourage listeners who have ideas for books, blogs, or businesses, but have yet to put pen to paper. Always encouragers, Tesi and Leslie hope listeners will learn from Leslie's journey and embrace their own exciting pursuit! For complete details and Show Notes, visit our website!

Episode 65: Ritual & Parenting with Kendra Thompson Oct 10, 2016

On Episode 65 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, hosts Tesi and Leslie introduce listeners to Kendra Thompson. Kendra is mother of two, a pastor, and a writer, and together the three woman focus the conversation on words like myth, habit, routine, ritual, vows, and discipline. Throughout the conversation the women play with these ideas as they try to understand how each of these rather grand-sounding terms fit into our lives. Tesi, Leslie, and Kendra enter this conversation from all sorts of angles: from a mothering standpoint, a spiritual standpoint, and from a partnership standpoint — focusing in on marriage in particular. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 64: Coffee & Wine Oct 05, 2016

Coffee and wine, wine and coffee. It's a thing! In Episode 64, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi try to get to the bottom of why these two seem so important to the moms. The women discuss how sometimes we do things out of habit, sometimes we do things out of necessity, and sometimes we do things are done out of sheer joy. We dare listeners to dig deep and ask yourself what motivates you to consume the things that you do. On either side of the conversation of coffee and wine, they answer a listener-submitted question and then they reveal their current favorites in the ever-popular Obsess Sesh. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 63: Taking on the Mantle of Motherhood with Julie Lyles Carr Oct 03, 2016

On Episode 63 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, Leslie and Tesi spend the hour with Julie Lyles Carr, an incredible and inspiring woman who is a writer, photographer, pastor, and the founder/director of a non-profit called Legacy of Hope. Julie drops by the podcast to tell the hosts about her new book, Raising An Original, but the three women end up covering not just the topics inherent to writing and the content of what she's created, but the importance of staying curious, taking care of the Other Self (for Julie, running, reading, bathing, and quiet time does the trick!), and best practices in parenting original kids as the original women and men we were created to be. The conversation stretches in all sorts of ways and Leslie and Tesi spend their time soaking up the wisdom of this delightful woman. Julie is thoughtful and intelligent, loving and charming. If you are for growth, action, and intentional and nuanced parenting, you'll adore today's conversation. For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 62: The Clarity & Freedom of Organizing the "F" Drawer Sep 28, 2016

It's easy to fall victim to our inability to live an authentic life simply by giving up our agency and forgetting that we're the ones steering the ship. Whether it's because we're trying to please someone, we're trying to protect or bolster our reputation, or we just don't know how to say no, so often we end up going places that we have no desire to be, engaging in battles that ultimately don't matter, and spending precious energy on things that are soul-sucking. Co-hosts Leslie and Tesi tackle these ideas in a segment called We Read, We Loved It, Let's Discuss and then jump into a new segment called We See You, which is a celebration of modern-day motherhood and the ways that so many are wearing it with incredible grace and gusto. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 61: Failure Does Not Define Us with Christina Ceranna Sep 26, 2016

In Episode 61 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk to Christina Ceranna about womanhood, friendship, and, most prominently, failure. The three women speak openly about times they've failed, about times they've been afraid to fail, about their children seeing them fail, and about the gifts that accompany the journey. The fear of failure so often stops us from pursuing our passions, simply because we are consumed by the idea that if the proejct fails, then it means we are failures. Today's conversation challenges listeners to become bedmates with failure and begin to understand that it is just another thing can happen to us, but does not define us. Throughout the candid conversation, the hosts lean into the unwavering kindness, thoughtfulness, and positivity of Christina and her quest to constantly grow as an individual. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 60: Old Wives in the Big City Sep 21, 2016

On Episode 60 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi tackle a question submitted by a a curious listener in their ASK US ANYTHING segment, discuss their weekend spent interviewing podcast guests in the nation's third largest city, and laugh over their embrace of weird and their acceptance of new behaviors in the OLD WIVES CORNER. This episode will make you smile, make you think, and make you want to run to the library. For links and complete Show Notes, visit www. mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 59: Show Me Your Story with Lauri Levenfeld Sep 19, 2016

On Episode 59 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie interview Lauri Levenfeld, a visionary, photographer, mother, wife, friend, and the soul behind the Project for Women, a forum showcasing inspiring women in fashion, technology, philanthropy, and business. Lauri was born a storyteller and during the podcast the three women dive deep in a conversation about gratitude, giving back, projected perfectionism, and authenticity. The hosts delight in the story of Lauri's profound (and very sweet) encounter with Nelson Mandela and are moved by her deep appreciation for the importance of connection, communication, history, and hard work. Never mind that Lauri has photographed Mark Zuckerberg and Hillary Clinton (just to name a few!), the three women peel back the layers of being a woman, wife, and mother, and enjoy a dialogue about the sweetness, silliness, and profundity of life. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 58: Creating Community After A Move Sep 14, 2016

On Episode 58 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, co-hosts and sisters-in-law Leslie and Tesi jump into a reader question regarding the realities of Mama Bear. Put simply, they discuss what to do when Mama Bear is just too tired for action and believes a hot shower to be the only nonessential thing she's capable of at the moment. Can you relate? Listen in as the hosts respond with candor and encouragement. Leslie and Tesi also dive into the topic of building a community of friends after a move. Loneliness can be devastating, so the hosts first declare "me too" and then dive into solutions and suggestions. They end the episode by exploring their Other Self as a check-in to one another and listeners about the way they engage in the ever-important act of self care. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 57: Finding (and using!) Your Voice with Natalie Grant Sep 12, 2016

Your perspective, your experience, your blessings and gifts, and your unique place in this world give you an incredible platform from which to stand and sing the song that only you can. There is no one in the world like you! Leslie and Tesi believe this to be true ... and so does Natalie Grant, a four-time Grammy-nominated recording artist, author, creator of the fashion and jewlery line NG by Natalie Grant, and the co-founder of the nonprofit Hope for Justice. On Episode 57 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, the three women discuss the power each of us hold within and encourage listeners to discover their strength and use it for ultimate good. While celebrating the publication of Natalie's new book, Finding Your Voice: What Every Woman Needs to Live Her God-Given Passions Outloud, the three women explore the ways we each are uniquely created to summon ultimate love to pour onto others. Though there are times that you feel small and powerless, the women have a strong message for you: Not only do you matter, but you are a crucial piece in the puzzle of life. For links and complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 56: Youth Sports —The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Sep 07, 2016

On Episode 56, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi tackle the topic of youth sports. It’s a subject fraught with all kinds of high emotion and the women hold nothing back as they discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly. Tesi and Leslie encourage listeners who find themselves on the bleachers or on the sidelines to check their Mama Bear for her motives and conduct themselves in a way that engages the good and prevents the bad and the ugly from seeping into the line-up. The two are breathtakingly honest about their perception of the youth sports phenomenon in the United States and they challenge the conventions of gender, the struggle over expectations, and the physical health and well-being of the generation coming up in the ranks. It’s a huge and hot topic, and the co-hosts dive in deep as they discuss and encourage! To view complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 55: Motherhood Abroad with Tarin Tesfaye Sep 05, 2016

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to parent in a developing nation? Do you ever like to peer through the window of other worlds and observe how parenting plays out? On Episode 55, co-host Leslie grabs the mic in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, and sits down with Tarin Tesfaye, an American woman living and mothering in a culture very different from the one we experience here in the United States. Listen in as she shares what it’s like to live in a mud hut on her in-law's family compound, the challenges and joys she finds in her everyday life with her husband and son, and her pulse on the world refugee crisis as an employee of ZOA, an NGO that focuses on helping internally displaced people, host populations, returnees, and a large population of refugees who fled a lethal combination of violence and drought in Somalia, conflict in South Sudan, and human rights violations in Eritrea. To view complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 54: A Mama Bear Review of BAD MOMS Aug 31, 2016

“You messed with my daughter and now I will have to fight you in the Trader Joe’s parking lot.” You guys! Even bad moms — we're pretty sure we're all bad moms — seek justice for their children and protect their young! Though co-hosts Tesi and Leslie would never condone fighting anyone in the Trader Joe's parking lot or elsewhere, they can't help but laugh with this Bad Moms movie moment. On this episode of the podcast, the co-hosts unpack their views of the movie Bad Moms, including this Mama Bear moment and many more. The two sisters enjoy their first movie review, as well as two segments meant to console and encourage: Leslie gets vulnerable in So What Happened Was... and the sisters unload some everyday hilarity and self-reflection in Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About, But Don't... Sometimes we need a reminder, even from the cataclysmic and sometimes questionable force of Hollywood, that we can laugh! So let's laugh! This episode dares you to belly laugh down the aisle of life and to be YOU in all of your imperfect glory. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 53: Bearing Hope with Liv Ryan Aug 29, 2016

On Episode 53 of Mama Bear Dares, Tesi and Leslie talk to Liv Ryan, a mother, a yoga instructor, an early-riser, a survivor, and an author. Liv has written a book call Bearing Hope: Navigating the Desert of Waiting for a Child and the three women discuss what got Liv to this place and the reasons why she decided to turn her experience of waiting and "the desert of infertility" into a practical book meant to guide and encourage others who may similarly be diving through the depths. After a conversation that covers topics ranging from grief, personal struggle, relationships, risks, and healing, the women leave listeners with a DARE and encourage the strugglers among us to be open to wisdom and to learn from Liv's tremendous strength, optimism, and honesty. For complete Show Notes, visit HERE. Other topics discussed: The language of griefHoly yoga, healing practice, and self careThe power of community"Project-based waiting"Preparing our kids for a life of love and imperfectionThe practicalities and joys of downsizing

How to Dodge Double-Dealing & Trickery During Late Summer & Always Aug 24, 2016

Ever wonder how the women around you seem to get all the things done? Ever wish parenting had a playbook where rules were hard and fast and yes's and no's were easy to determine? On Episode 52 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie dive into both, first with an Ask Us Anything segment during which they tackle a listener question and then in a segment (We Read It, We Loved It, Let's Discuss) in which they discuss their own philosophy and daily practice of standard yes's and no's. After a lively discussion full of examples and solutions, the women wrap up the Mama Bear Mini with a segment called Maybe It's Meditation, detailing their current meditation practice and what their noticing as a result. View full Show Noter on the Mama Bear Dares website!

Episode 51: Give Your Child the World with Jamie C. Martin Aug 22, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Tesi and Leslie talk to Jamie C. Martin, a mother, an avid reader, a homeschooler, a world traveler, and a witness to the terrible tragedy that took place at Sandy Hook Elementary School in December 2012. Jamie has written a book that the sister-hosts absolutely love and think you will, too! The women discuss Give Your Child the World: Raising Globally Minded Kids One Book at a Time and the ways in which we can help our children develop empathy and compassion through literature and story. After a conversation that covers topics ranging from the gift of public libraries to dealing with tragedy alongside children to the dynamic appeal of list-making to the beauty of our enormous world, the women leave listeners with a DARE encouraging listeners to think about their own story and the stories of others, using the collective narratives to give children the gift of uplifting, beautiful, redemptive tales as a shield from the world's cynicism and a springboard to a life of love and compassion. For full Show Notes, head to www.MamaBearDaresPodcast.com. Other points discussed: Our shared love of books!Homeschooling and intentional educationThe power of STORYParenting through tragedyHow/Why to emphasize global-mindedness in your American household today

Episode 50: Love & More Love (Leslie Wrote A Book!) Aug 17, 2016

You guys! Our very own co-host wrote a book! It's called Mama Bear's Manifesto and it's available for pre-order on Amazon! Leslie and Tesi spend the podcast talking about the basic idea of the Mama Bear lurking inside each of us and celebrate the arrival of Leslie's book in the world. Their excitement is real! After all, the Manifesto shares the message of this podcast: We are powerful. We are ferocious. We are perfectly positioned to wreak havoc on this world! You're going to love seeing this spelled out on the page! Within their celebration, the co-hosts discuss the power of female friendship and the way Mama Bear's Manifesto aims to encourage women to use their relationships and their incredible capacity to love in big and bold ways, all the while encouraging listeners to identify the strength of their own Mama Bear and make the decision to use her power for good. They discuss Leslie's writing process and get real about the making of the book. In both big and small ways we are meant to live authentic, LOVE-filled lives. It's a bonus when you uncover your Mama Bear and begin training her for a better world. As the book and the podcast both enthusiastically declare, it's the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world! Check out complete Show Notes here. Pre-order Leslie's book, Mama Bear's Manifesto, by clicking here!

Episode 49: Mothering & Mental Illness with Cathy Engstrom Aug 15, 2016

On Episode 49 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie speak to Cathy Engstrom, a mom of three, a runner, and an all-around lovely woman. As the women discuss Cathy's life, they focus on the strength she has shown while parenting one child with a learning disability and one child with mental illness. Cathy is honest about both the struggle and the beauty of being a mom to kids who require her Mama Bear to advocate on their behalf every single day. The women celebrate the engaged Mama Bear who is awake not only to the larger world around her, but who realizes that changing the world starts at home. Cathy offers a unique perspective, incredible wisdom, and hope to mothers who are struggling through the ups and downs of parenting children with various needs. Visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com for complete Show Notes. Other topics discussed on the podcast: How to approach teachers, school administrators, and your child's school district as a whole, even when it seems overwhelming to do soDepression, anxiety, attachment disorders, dyslexia, and dysgraphiaThe importance of allowing yourself to grieve if a child is diagnosed with a disability or illnessThe importance of self care (hint: People magazine for the win!)The dignity and relief of being honest when it comes to talking about the circumstances of mental illness within your communityThe ways we can help other mothers who are caring for children with a diagnosis

Episode 48: Sorry, Not Sorry Aug 10, 2016

Ever wish you could be a bit more forthcoming in putting your ideas and values into the world? Do you ever find yourself apologizing for things that don't merit an "I'm sorry"? On Episode 48 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie dive into both issues, first with an Ask Us Anything segment during which they tackle a listener question and then in a segment (Things That Make You Go Hmmm...) in which they talk about the way women often overuse the words "I'm sorry." After a lively discussion full of examples and solutions, the women wrap up the Mama Bear Mini with an Obsesh Sesh, detailing their current favorites. Visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website for complete Show Notes.

Episode 47: Contentment is a Unicorn with Melanie Dale Aug 08, 2016

On Episode 48 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie talk to Melanie Dale about her new book It's Not Fair: Learning to Love the Life You Didn't Choose. The three women discuss coping mechanisms (both healthy and harmful), bearing hope during difficult periods, and the healing power of laughter when all you want to do is cry. As they explore the themes of loss and hardship, the women also discuss the ways in which we can be good friends to those who are suffering around us and how we might better express ourselves in times of personal darkness. The conversation is honest, uplifting, and filled with lighthearted moments. Tune in to learn more about author and mother Melanie and learn from her unique wisdom encouraging women to move through difficult times with courage and steadfast faith. For complete Show Notes, head to www.MamaBearDaresPodcast.com.

Episode 46: The Great American Clothing Fast Aug 03, 2016

So many of us are careful consumers and stewards of the earth. We make sure to recycle, we purchase locally sourced—even organic—foods, and check products for BPA and red dye, but we often pay less attention to where our clothing comes from, who produces it, and what it's made of. Today, the co-hosts respond to Episode 45: The Management, Organization, & Coordination of Stuff and Why We'd Rather Eat Pie, in which Leslie and Tesi interview Jennie Barnds and discuss our consumer habits and the physical "stuff" that we all have so much of. The women talk about the KonMari Method of decluttering and take it a step further by exploring our spiritual relationship to physical things. In Episode 46, Tesi and Leslie continue the conversation and discuss Leslie's extreme response to a fantastic book. Published in 2012, Over-Dressed: The Shockingly High Cost of Cheap Fashion by Elizabeth L. Cline inspired Leslie to engage on a yearlong clothing fast. The women spend time talking about what she learned and offering tips to listeners who might be encouraged to take back the power of the purse and make big or small changes that impact their closets, peace of mind, and, ultimately, the world we live in. For links and complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 45: The Care & Management of Stuff & Why We'd Rather Be Eating Pie Aug 01, 2016

On Episode 45, Tesi and Leslie talk to Jennie Barnds, a mom-of-three with an interesting perspective on our tendency to collect material things and allow "stuff" to slowly take over our homes and lives. Jennie talks not only about literally cleaning a house, but also explores the metaphor of the space that things take up in our hearts and brains. Jennie shares her experience of following the very popular Marie Kondo method of tidying up, as well as her experience of organizing and cleaning her mother- and father-in-law's home shortly after her father-in-law's sudden death and her mother-in-law's subsequent move to assisted living. The three women dive into the questions that surround our American tendency toward excessive consumerism and explore its impact on the human soul ... and on the freedom of the next generation. For links and complete Show Notes, visit our website. Also discussed on this episode: The rub of letting go: Can we let go to our clothing, things, pictures, jobs, and relationships? What's the benefit of letting go? Is there ever a reason to hold on?Other people's things: Can we form emotional attachments to other people's things? Should we?There are ways that we can help our kids navigate a world focused on things. We can also encourage our parents and grandparents to come up with a plan for what happens to their treasures at the end of life. If not, it's possible to end up living in a museum.The spirituality of "stuff": Can there be a spiritual connection to our things? WWJD with all of our things? What does Christ teach us about being men and women who live for others, not for things.

Episode 44: Parenting Through Tragedy (at Home and Abroad) Jul 27, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, Tesi and Leslie reign in the mighty-Mama-Bear-poised-for-action that resides in each of them and attempt to have a disciplined, yet passionate, conversation about the world at large. Leslie just returned from a three-week vacation that involved time in Nice, so the sisters can't help but once again tackle the headlines. The women talk a bit about Leslie’s vacation and a bit about Nice, but the bulk of the conversation is a discussion of how we engage our Mama Bear in a fight for justice in the world and how to raise our kids to be compassionate and loving when it feels like the world is the opposite. Tesi and Leslie do their best to talk through two basic questions in the midst of very challenging times: How do we remain compassionate and nonjudgmental during these times? And how do we raise our kids to do the same? For full Show Notes, please visit our website!

Episode 43: A Midwife to the Next Life Jul 25, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to Lisa Gaston about death and dying. Lisa is a trained chaplain and mom to three grown children. Listen as she discusses what it's like to accompany individuals in the midst of the dying process and families as they face the death of a loved one. Together, we dig into dying, living, and the search for life's purpose. Lisa offers a unique look into a fascinating, complex, and largely avoided topic, gently encouraging listeners to face their own insecurities and views of death and dying. For complete Show Notes and links, please visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website. Other points discussed: Serving God from wherever we areLearning from life's minutiaeOur societal response to death: Is it the right response? How did we get here? How do other cultures respond to death and dying?How do we die with dignity?How can we prepare for death?

Episode 42: Hamilton & Hip Hop (for Moms!) Jul 20, 2016

Following co-host Leslie's obsession with the story of Hamilton and the music of Lin Manual Miranda, she and Tesi jump in and discuss the phenomenon that so many mamas love! Episode 44 unpacks Hamilton's brilliance and explores the reasons why we believe that the rap and hip hop in the show has struck a chord with so many of our Mama Bears. Tesi and Leslie invite their resident music-loving, trend-finding influencer and sister Kait to the room where the podcast happens. Together, the trio dives into the power of music and its incredible ability to influence our culture and define generations. The episode ends with Kait's suggestions for Hamilton-lovin' mamas who want to expand their musical palette and step into the story-telling brilliance and sound of rap and hip hop. For full Show Notes and links, visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

Episode 41: A Swirly Mess of Beautiful with Mandy Arioto Jul 18, 2016

On Episode 41, Tesi and Leslie interview Mandy Arioto, the president and CEO of MOPS (Mothers of Preschool) International, who will release her debut book Starry-Eyed: Seeing Grace in the Unfolding Constellation of Life and Motherhood in August. Tesi and Leslie absolutely love the book and were delighted by their conversation with Mandy, a woman who is smart, sweet, vulnerable, and full of inspiration. Mandy believes in intentionally showing up in relationships (even when it's hard or uncomfortable) and leaning on one another in times of celebration and strife. And, much like Leslie and Tesi, she goes BIG to cultivate joy! The women discuss the ins and outs of motherhood (both the inherent joy and pain), the challenges of finding time to embrace the Other Self, and the amazing opportunity women have to influence the next generation of humans. Ultimately, all three women believe somethings fundamental: Moms are world changers! For complete show notes and to order Mandy's book visit our website.

Episode 40: On Privilege Jul 13, 2016

On Part 2 of our series exploring privilege, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie focus more on what privilege even means. We hear from Kait Klipsch (another Mama Bear sister!) on how she has seen her own privilege play out, as well as how easy it is to ignore it as part of your reality. The co-hosts also explore the disheartening injustices Kait has witnessed while working in the criminal justice system in Brooklyn, New York, with the aim to educate themselves and their listeners on how injustice happens everywhere, including in places like the Midwest. Today's episode expands on Episode 39, which released Monday, so please go back and listen for context. Tesi and Leslie hope this series with Kait will give Mama Bears the frame of reference they need when they hear current conversations surrounding the phrase "white privilege." After the deaths this week in America, everyone at Mama Bear Dares believe it's of the utmost important to unpack the phrase so that we can learn to live out our lives with compassion. Read more on our website.

Episode 39: The Eye-Opening Power of Travel Jul 11, 2016

It has been a really intense week here in America. From Alton Sterling and Philando Castle to the 5 police officers in Dallas-this week has been seemingly consumed with death. If there has been one thing that is shared among Americans, it's grief. On Episode 39 co-hosts Tesi and Leslie welcome one of their other sisters-in-law, Kait Klipsch. Because of Kait's unique outlook on life and their shared interests the sisters talked for more than 2 hours. In today's Part 1 the sisters deep dive into Kait's extensive experience in living and working in other countries. The women talk about how traveling for Kait, whether it be across the world to Sri Lanka or across the city to the south side of Chicago, opened her eyes to a new reality. One that wasn't even close to her experience as a white, upper-middle class woman. For more information on Part 1 of the series exploring privilege, go to our website.

Episode 38: The Horizontal Tango (Let's Talk About Sex) Jul 06, 2016

On Episode 40 of Mama Bear Dares, the hosts talk about, well, sex. Tesi and Leslie—with the help of life coach Gervase Kolmos (Episode 27)—discuss the nature of sex and how it changes during pregnancy, after children, and with every single stage of life. The three women celebrate healthy partnerships, romantic love, and the joys of physical touch, all the while being honest about the challenges that parenting brings into the mix of a relationship. They candidly discuss tips and tricks to maintain a healthy sex life and discuss the topic as only girlfriends can. Listen in! For complete Show Notes and Links, visit our website!

Episode 37: How to Heal with Dana Linze-Dengler Jul 04, 2016

Dana Dengler Linze is a nurse, mother, talented artist, and avid gardener. She is also a widower. When Dana was 26, her 28-year-old husband was killed in a tragic accident after which she was left to raise her three young boys and to pick up the pieces of her life. Dana opens up about the unimaginable and talks to co-hosts Leslie and Tesi about the process of grief, her experience with depression, her sadness and eventual healing, and her willingness to love again*. In an emotional interview, listeners will be asked to contemplate love and loss, and learn from the depths of Dana's experience. It almost goes without saying that the MBD co-hosts are in awe by the strength, determination, and grace of this woman. For links and full Show Notes, visit our website! Also discussed: How do you grieve when you have bills to pay and boys to raise?The women discuss how diamonds are shaped by tremendous pressure and how humans are made through suffering.The ways in which a life can be shaped—in both beautiful and horrible ways—by dealing with the reality of death.Mental health, the importance of treating what's broken, and the gifts of being transparent throughout stuggle.Finding love after unimaginable loss.The metaphorical growth of a backyard garden and the beauty of a purple tomato.The importance of volunteerism and the ways we can shape the next generation through authentic examples of tangible love.

Episode 36: So What Happened Was... Jun 28, 2016

On Episode 36, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi enjoy a brief conversation about Seinfeld, dancing in Africa, and a Tanzanian trumpet choir in a segment they like to call SO WHAT HAPPENED WAS... The sisters go on to share some great summer recipes that highlight the seasonal produce that's so abundant during this time of year in a segment called LET'S TALK ABOUT HEALTH, BABY. The dishes they linger over are healthy, beautiful on the plate, inexpensive, and full of nutrition—plus they take no time to make! Finally, they end the mid-week mini by digging deep, getting real, and telling listeners about the THINGS THEY SHOULD PROBABLY FEEL GUILTY ABOUT, BUT DON'T. For links and complete Show Notes, visit our website!

Episode 35: Nothing of Value Separates Us Jun 27, 2016

On Episode 35 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie interview Tara Livesay, a native Minnesotan who has spent the last 10 years living with her family in Haiti. Tara is a mother (by birth and adoption), Certified Professional Midwife, blogger, and advocate for sustainable change throughout the developing world. She and the team at Heartline Ministries spend their days empowering, educating, and encouraging women in Haiti through relational midwifery and a focus on keeping first families together. Tesi and Leslie loved the time spent with Tara and were blown away by her vulnerability, bravery, and extraordinarily good humor. Listeners will enjoy hearing Tara's fascinating tales of worth, wisdom, and a life well-lived (in Haiti!) ... and may even be inspired to think about social change and the ways that they can make waves in their own small corner of the world. For complete Show Notes, head to www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Episode 34: Crossing the Globe with Kids Jun 22, 2016

On today's mid-week episode, Leslie and Tesi debate whether or not kids belong on all vacations. The co-hosts discuss the pros and cons of traveling with kids and explore the immediate needs of moms as individuals and the long-term impact that geographical exploration has on children. Leslie dives into why it's so important to her to take her kids just about anywhere as she trots the globe and Tesi drops some knowledge on traveling on a budget and shares examples of what she has learned from navigating the world with a family of seven. The sisters dare listeners to consider travel—both literally and as a state of mind—and how embracing a bit of movement and whimsy this summer can lead to a season well lived. For full Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com. MBD: FOUR REASONS TO CROSS THE GLOBE WITH KIDS Kids bring wonder and delightKids slow you down...in a good wayThese experiences will shape their brains foreverTravel is a physical and emotional journey...even for kids MBD: BUDGET FRIENDLY TRAVEL (with kids) TIPS Research, research, researchTake out cash and stick to it!Pack food or stay in places with a small kitchen that allow you to buy in bulk. (Leslie and family have had great luck with AirBnB and Homeaway.)

Episode 34: Crossing the Globe with Kids Jun 22, 2016

On today's mid-week episode, Leslie and Tesi debate whether or not kids belong on all vacations. The co-hosts discuss the pros and cons of traveling with kids and explore the immediate needs of moms as individuals and the long-term impact that geographical exploration has on children. Leslie dives into why it's so important to her to take her kids just about anywhere as she trots the globe and Tesi drops some knowledge on traveling on a budget and shares examples of what she has learned from navigating the world with a family of seven. The sisters dare listeners to consider travel—both literally and as a state of mind—and how embracing a bit of movement and whimsy this summer can lead to a season well lived. For complete Show Notes and links, head to the Mama Bear Dares website. MBD: FOUR REASONS TO CROSS THE GLOBE WITH KIDS Kids bring wonder and delightKids slow you down...in a good wayThese experiences will shape their brains foreverTravel is a physical and emotional journey...even for kids MBD: BUDGET FRIENDLY TRAVEL (with kids) TIPS Research, research, researchTake out cash and stick to it!Pack food or stay in places with a small kitchen that allow you to buy in bulk. (Leslie and family have had great luck with AirBnB and Homeaway.)

Episode 33: Poetry for the People Jun 20, 2016

On Episode 33, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi tackle the topic of poetry in the modern world by interviewing award-winning poet and mother-of-two Aubrey Ryan. Aubrey shares her experience with poetry and the way it impacts her everyday, all the while helping to demystify the sometimes intimidating art form. The women spend an hour together admiring the poetry in our world while viewing it from unexpected angles: poetry as medicine, writing as healing, and verse as activism. Listeners will hear the words of poets who have you woven truths together and may pause to take in the power of language, lingering over the mystery and beauty of the ways that we, as human beings, communicate. Tesi, Leslie, and their guest talk about being alive to the extraordinary in the ordinary and then telling of the discovery in magnificent and creative ways. All of this to say, as Aubrey Ryan does in Episode 33, "Hey, world! Poetry is not hard!" For full Show Notes, visit Mama Bear Dares online.

Episode 32: Summer & the War Against Manufactured Magic Jun 15, 2016

On Episode 32, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi dive into a topic near and dear to their hearts—the war against manufactured magic. It’s a Gladiator’s road to be sure, but today's episode tackles the idea that kids can make their own fun this summer and that women can release the pressure they may feel as moms to create constant joy, whimsy, and fun for them. The conversation focuses on a great article written Bunmi Laditan that appeared in The Huff Post. Surrounding this topic, the podcast opens with a celebration of Tesi's birthday and ends with a dare to let memories be made because you refuse to give into the pressures of the world and allow your kids experience magic on their own. For complete Show Notes visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/. Here are some highlights of the conversation: Leslie reveals that her best parenting move is from the couch or the porchThe co-hosts share childhood memories that were very simple and were not manufactured! Tesi recalls a thrilling childhood—and she doesn’t remember seeing her mom during the day. (She was certainly not manufacturing magic.)If it feels natural to you to create magic, then do it! But if it feels unnatural to you, don’t. Release the pressure of perfection!We pose a few final questions from the article about childhood, magic, and where you stand on the relationship between the two...and ask our Mama Bear Community to answer online!

Episode 31: Meditation for the Curious Girl Jun 13, 2016

On Episode 31 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie interview meditation coach and mother of two, Angie Sands. Angie delights the co-hosts with her calm spirit and incredible bank knowledge about the age-old practice of meditation. The women discuss how the act of meditating has impacted their emotional lives and the way in which meditation impacts the development and maturation of the human brain. It's a fascinating conversation about a topic of curiosity for more and more moms in the trenches of parenthood. Also on this episode, Leslie and Tesi have fun exploring a new segment inspired by Angie called MAYBE IT'S MEDITATION during which they discuss the impact of meditation on their every day lives. Am I calmer in line at the grocery store? Are the clouds really that beautiful? Does meditation literally make my skin glow? The co-hosts wonder just how far meditation can take a person, and they want to hear from you about your own experiences or apprehensions! Finally, after a fruitful conversation with Angie, we hear about her current obsessions in the OBSESS SESH. For complete show notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten. Other topics discussed: The remarkable brain science behind meditationThe benefits for kids who engage in a meditation practiceThe idea that though many of our desires are externally driven, we have everything we need inside of us to feel peace and happiness. Meditation will help us unlock these joys!The difference between meditation and mindfulnessThe question of whether or not there is an element of privilege in the practice of meditationHow to get started with a meditation practice...perhaps it can be a way to nurture your Other Self!

Episode 30: Gorilla, Rape Culture, & the Role of Parents Jun 08, 2016

Tesi and Leslie get a little heated, a tiny bit soap box-y, and a whole lot passionate on Episode 30 in which they tackle the headlines. The women pause to consider the magnifying glass that was placed on the mother at the Cincinnati Zoo as her toddler tumbled into the ape enclosure and discuss how, as mothers, our generation can help put a stop to the rape culture that's all too prevalent in our country. As they discuss the zoo incident and the sentence just doled out to a rapist in California, the women try their best to navigate the incredibly difficult world we inhabit. Through their conversation they mince no words, but do their best to arrive at a place of productive rage and overall love. Here are a few ways that moms (and dads) can help turn the tide of rape culture discussed on today's episode: Talk to your kids about sexImplement a firm "no means no policy" while rough-housing, tickling, wrestling, or any other physical playEncourage children to practice their "no" ... and then honor itStop telling our daughters that "teasing" (pulling hair, etc.) is a sign that someone "likes" youStop assigning boyfriends/girlfriends to young childrenWhen age appropriate, talk about the definition of consentDiscuss with your children the media's portrayal of criminals through images and the use of language in describing victims and perpetratorsNotice together how race and class can distort our system of justice How to find hope, Mama Bears? Listen to the end of the episode for a list of what keeps Leslie and Tesi clinging to the idea that good can prevail. For complete show notes, head to www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/dare to listen.

Episode 29: All the Women Around the World Jun 06, 2016

When Leslie, the co-host of the Mama Bear Dares, traveled to East Africa late last month with the NGO she contracts with, she realized she had a great opportunity to introduce listeners of the Mama Bear Dares podcast to a Tanzanian mother. Her international colleague at Empower Tanzania, new mom and program manager Efrancia Nzota, graciously agreed to be a guest on the show. After a long, hot day of training Maasai women as Community Health Workers, Leslie and Efra sat down at the Nzoroko Hotel restaurant, shared a Coke, and discussed the ways their lives as professionals and as mothers are similar and the ways in which they are different. The conversation that listeners will listen in on in Episode 29 may point listeners to this: Our joys and triumphs as mothers and women are universal. We can sit with friends in our own communities and find out that we have much in common, and we can travel across the world, sit down with friends there, and learn the same thing. This transformative realization is one hosts Leslie and Tesi hope listeners will never look back from. For complete show notes and all links from the episode, visit http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/

Episode 28: Husbands, Brothers, & Kale Jun 01, 2016

On Episode 28 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi talks to Leslie's husband Jake and her own husband Zach about embracing a plant-based diet while Leslie is in East Africa with the NGO she contracts with, Empower Tanzania. In this debut of male voices on the podcast, Tesi and the pair of brothers discuss their plant-based lifestyle, offer resources for those interested in learning more, and share anecdotes about how becoming vegan has impacted their health and their lives. Finally, in a nod to the ever-present phenomena of "Mommy Guilt," they tackle "Daddy Guilt" and try to determine whether or not it truly exists. (Hint: It does!) Segments include When You Know Better, You Do Better and Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About But Don't. Visit the Mama Bear Dares Podcast website for complete show notes and links!

Episode 27: This is Going to End in Something Beautiful May 30, 2016

On today's Mama Bear Dares episode, Leslie and Tesi interview the fabulous life-coach and founder of Shiny.Happy.Human Gervase Kolmos. The women dive into a conversation about the whole human experience and the flavor that motherhood brings to a life. All three are candid and honest about the ups and downs of raising tiny humans and its impact on life in the trenches of parenthood. The conversation continues as Leslie and Tesi talk to Gervase about leading a life of celebration and taking the time to notice and applaud victories, both big and small. The women also dig into how to disappoint others honorably, the danger of capping joy, and the beauty of living a life of celebration. Overall, this honest conversation encourages listeners to live well and embrace this one incredible life! For more information about this episode, check out www.mamabeardares.com/daretolisten.

Episode 26: Beyond the Resume May 25, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, our mid-week episode, Tesi and Leslie talk about the quest for virtue and a life well lived in a segment called We Read It, We Loved It, Let's Discuss. Here they tackle all kinds of questions about what it means to be a good person and how we might all seek to find the glow of selflessness. After a heavy and hopeful conversation, Tesi and Leslie dive into their very own Obsess Sesh! We Read It, We Loved It, Let's Discuss Find the article discussed here: "The Moral Bucket List" by David Brooks, New York Times, essay adapted from his book The Road to Character. Here are a few of the experiences highlighted on the way to the richest possible life. We encourage you to discover and dissect them all: The Humility ShiftSelf-DefeatThe Dependency LeapEnergizing LoveThe Call Within the CallThe Conscience Leap Other books/resources mentioned: The Life Changing Magic of Not Giving A F@*k by Sarah Knight Everything by Brene Brown, but especially: The Gifts of Imperfection | Daring Greatly | Rising Strong Go back and check out our interview with Jody Landers. It's Episode 3: Doing it Scared on iTunes, Stitcher, or wherever you listen! Thanks again to MCSqu

Episode 25: #SkinSuit May 23, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to the lovely Denise Cartright about how to keep our #skinsuit (aka your skin) healthy and glowing! Denise is a master esthetician and founder/owner of Crude Personal Care, a cutting edge oil-cleansing skin system. Denise educates listeners on the skin biome and asks us to turn our attention inward on ourselves so that our exterior can shine and our whole beings can thrive. Also discussed is the story of how Crude was born—a fascinating tale of entrepreneurship, risk, and the power of one. This episode aims to talk about the practical matter of skin, but as we often find, it's never really just about what's on the outside. We are complex beings with beautiful stories to spin! For complete show notes and links, visit http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/

Episode 24: Relationship Advice from Old Wives May 18, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, our mid-week episode, we talk about keeping romantic relationships alive after kids enter the scene. Prompted by learning about the break-up of two great, previously betrothed authors mentioned in Episode 18, Tesi and Leslie come up with Seven Simple Ways to Nurture Your Relationship After Kids with a focus on the people who are the closest: our spouses/partners. Links and complete show information located at http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/

Episode 23: On Immigration, Compassion, & Complexity May 16, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to Cynthia Vanderpool Garcia about immigration, advocacy, and neighborliness. Cynthia, mom to two young children and immigration lawyer, explains what it's like to be on the front lines of immigration in America. Together, we dig into the immigration process, compassion fatigue, and the complexities of life in America. Cynthia offers a look into a fascinating world, gently educating us and encouraging us to live our lives well. Links and more information can be found at http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/.

Episode 22: Stop Interrupting Me May 11, 2016

On Episode 22 of Mama Bear Dares, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie riff on an article about the power dynamics of language in relation to gender. After discussing ten words that we should teach our daughters to say comfortably in conversation, they take questions from the Mama Bear Community and do their best to answer from the heart. They encourage you to recognize the power of your own voice and use your Mama Bear strength to assert your words in the world. Links and more information about the episode are available at http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/daretolisten/

Episode 21: Light & Love May 09, 2016

Ashley Summers, the woman behind the fantastic clothing line The Homemade Kid, could not be more delightful. You'll meet her during this episode of Mama Bear Dares and will be instantly charmed. Not only is she giving away a Mama Bear t-shirt (stay until the end to learn how to win!), but she opens up about her experience of birthing a daughter and a business within two weeks of one another, what inspires her, and her life on the West Coast. Tune in as Tesi and Leslie ask Ashley about her work, her family, and her fabulous self! In this episode, we also talk about: The birth of a business and a baby. This topic leads us to the question: What are YOU capable of?Ashley's awesome ability to prioritize and live with PEACE about her choices.Ashley's lightness! Our Friday night fun!We also discuss Ashley's practiced eye for beautiful things and her company's cute designs.Obsess Sesh! Tesi and Leslie are obsessed with The Homemade Kid. Here's what Ashley is currently loving: Birch Box Her Ninja Coffee Maker Spoon Flower Fabrics There are so many ways to win:#1. Like The Homemade Kid (Insta | FB) and MAMA Bear

Episode 20: Happy Mother's Day! Let's Talk to Our Kids! May 04, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, our mid-week episode, we talk about Mother's Day, interview our kids, and encourage YOU to do the same! As we celebrate nurturing women this week, we dare listeners to take a moment to be really proud of who you are as a mom or to cheer on the mom you will someday become. Regardless of what motherhood looks like for you, we think you're amazing! Questions for the kids: Here's the script we used to interview our kids. Feel free to use it however you please! What is your favorite thing to do with me?What is something I’ve said to you that has helped you in the past? A bit of wisdom that you think about even when I’m not there?How would you describe me? Is there something about me that would surprise other people to know?On the Mama Bear Dares podcast we encourage moms to be their very best selves. Can you think of a way I can support you better? How can I be a better mom to you?Who is your best friend? What is it about this friend that makes them so great? What’s it like to see your mom with her friends? What do they do? How do they act?You have a lot of aunts and grandmas in this life. This is really special. What do you like about having all of these women who love you so much?Currently, what's your favorite thing to do? What are you obsessed with? We want to hear from YOU!! We encourage all of you to sit down with your kids and ask these questions and record them!!! You don’t need high tech equipment, there are plenty of free apps that will record audio. Download one of those and carve out some time to talk with your kids and then send us the audio file! In a future Mama Bear Mini we will include some of our favorites! Email us at mamabeardares@gmail.com. Mam

Episode 19: Beauty is Yours to Behold May 02, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Tesi and Leslie interview Meg Duerksen, the woman behind the wildly popular WHATEVER blog and the owner of the adorable and brilliant Craft House. The women talk about the search for beauty in a sometimes difficult world, the ins and outs of blogging, and the importance of sacred community. The episode ends with a peek into Meg's life by exploring three things she's currently obsessed with. You can find Meg on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and, of course, on her BLOG. We spoke about The Adventure Project, one of our favorite organizations. OBSESS SESH: Meg is currently obsessed with black coffee, these jeans, and a lovely little cow bust that used to belong to Meg's grandmother. PINTERESTING, VERY PINTERESTING: Here's what Tesi is pinning: Vegan Peanut Cup Butter Pie Here's what Leslie is pinning:

Episode 18: It Takes Guts to Trust Your Gut Apr 27, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, our mid-week episode, we discuss being an advocate for your health and listening to your body in our segment "Let's talk about health, baby." Tesi shares a recent health development and encourages listeners to value themselves enough to nurture their body when it breaks. We also tackle a new recipe on "When you know better, You do better" and conclude with a fan favorite, "Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About, But Don't." Today we dare listeners to take their health into their own hands. Give yourself that breast exam; learn to listen to every ache and pain. Tesi and Leslie don’t want to encourage you to fight death or aging tooth and nail, but they DO want to encourage you to embrace the one body you get in this lifetime and to take care of it the way your Mama Bear takes care of the children, pets, and favorite people in your life. Let's talk about health, baby: Tesi tells listeners about a recent health event in her life. Episode 12 (On Obsessions, Allergies, and Being Brave) is referenced. Find it HERE. When you know better, you do better: We encourage you to shake things up in the kitchen and embrace Meatless Monday...on any day of the week! You can find the fantastic Mac-n-Cheese recipe (it's vegan and plant-based!) we discuss in the show HERE. Documentaries we discuss: Cowspiracy Forks Over Knives

Episode 17: The Search for Faith, Love, and Justice Apr 25, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to Sara Olson-Smith about faith, community, what it’s like being a woman with influence, and social activism. Sara, mom to two young children and pastor of a large church, tells us what it feels like to be called to be a truth-teller and how her faith plays a huge role in her life. Together, we dig into how to respond to a broken world and how to find hope at the end of each day. Listeners will love hearing from Sara as she shares her appreciation and hopes for the church—and for all of humanity—as a body of witness. Other points discussed: A response to a world in crisisHopes and fears of practicing a Christian faith in this worldSara’s journey to becoming who she is todayWomen in ministrySara’s take on corporate worshipAdvice to those who want to become an ally to the disenfranchisedLINKS: Click here to read Tesi’s blog post about what she feels about being Christian and finding a community of worship. All three of us love the podcast Another Round, check it out HERE. Here’s where Sara serves as a pastor. Obsess Sesh: A few things that Sara is loving right now: Wireless Bluetooth headphones that she can wear while moving about and listening to Hamilton!

Episode 16: The Dynamic Power of Womanhood & Finding Your Tribe Apr 20, 2016

On this Mama Bear Mini, our mid-week episode, we discuss a few quotes from a book we love called Nice Girls Don’t Change the World in our segment called “We read it, We loved it, Let’s discuss…” We also tackle an article about the power of community and female friendship that a Mama Bear Dares listener shared with us and that we just love. Today we dare listeners to think about the power of the friendship in their lives and challenge them to nurture these friendships, not just for the health and wellness benefits, but because we need our girlfriends and they need us. We ask that immaturity and pettiness be banished from getting in the way of relationships and that our listeners strive toward womanhood and yield the power held within: the power of clarity, wisdom, and experience. WE READ IT, WE LOVED IT, LET’S DISCUSS: The conversation at the center of Episode 14 is based from the following: Find Lynne Hybels book Nice Girls Don't Change the WorldHERE. Find the article from Uplift, WHY WOMEN NEED A TRIBE by Tanja Taljaard, HERE. Mama Bears, we’re online! Here’s where you can find us: Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and let us know what you’re thinking! And don’t forget about our online style consultation from fashion blogger Yasi Back! Just leave a comment on iTunes and you’ll be entered to win!

Episode 15: Nerdy by Nature, the Importance of Inner Work, and the Question of Puffy Vests Apr 18, 2016

Yasi Back is an epidemiologist by day and style blogger by night. She is the woman behind Hello, Gorgeous, a hugely popular fashion blog that she has curated from her home home in Michigan for the last half decade. She opens up to Mama Bear Dares listeners on her love of fashion, her investment in her community, and the importance of honoring yourself and your priorities. She also offers solid advice to listeners about wearing what works for you and she makes an important announcement about her work. Yasi is such a pleasure! You can find here on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and, of course, on her blog. Here are a few of the highlights from our discussion with Yasi: The keys to personal styleBody acceptanceEver-evolving fashionStyle bloggers for the average cat, the working woman, and the mom who stays at homeDisordered eating and the power of writing as a healing mechanismBeyonceAnd...Yasi makes a big announcementOBSESS SESH: We love hearing what our guests are currently into. Here's Yasi's list: Books: Yasi has been reading The Summer Girls trilogy and recently finished The Pe

Episode 14: Mama Guilt No More! Apr 13, 2016

Last week we asked our Mama Bear Community what they think of when they hear the phrase “Mommy Guilt” and we received some great feedback that we share and respond to on Episode 14 of Mama Bear Dares. Mommy Guilt is a phrase that our culture is way too familiar with. But why? Leslie and Tesi tackle the topic today revealing their own experiences with Mommy Guilt and disclosing moments when they are plagued and moments when they refuse to let the feeling steal their joy. We also introduce a few new segments we think you can get down with: Reppin the MBC on the MBD and Things We Should Probably Feel Guilty About But Don’t. Segment 1: Reppin the MBC on the MBD! (In other words, Reppin the Mama Bear Community on Mama Bear Dares!) After discussing listener comments, we offer a bit of dialogue on how we’re trying to eradicate Mommy Guilt from our lives. Here are a few highlights: Make sure it’s guilt and not shame. There’s a difference!Let some things go. Evaluate what you’re feeling guilty about — is it worth it?Recognize that parenting is not a competitive sportPrioritize the enjoyment of the parenting experience NOT the enjoyment of your childSet aside specific time just for the familySegment 2: Things we should probably feel guilty about, but don’t! Leslie and Tesi bare their soul in a nod to the fact that no one is perfect! This begs for listener feedback: Do tell! What do you do that you DON’T feel guilty about? We mention the following on the podcast: Whether you’re in sub-saharan Africa or the middle of Michigan, you might need this: Instant Immersion Portable Heater Read all of Brene Brown’s books. Do it. (She researches shame and gui

Episode 13: Friendship, Fashion, and the Female Body Apr 11, 2016

On this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Leslie and Tesi talk to the lovely Sarah Wenger about the female body. Sarah, mom to three with a fourth on the way, opens up to us from her home in Colorado about her career as a model and about what it was like growing up in a family and community where no one else looked quite like her. Together, we dig into body image, the power of our physical selves, and aging gracefully. Listeners will love hearing about Sarah’s journey of self acceptance, will relate to her strong need for community, and will be fascinated by Sarah’s insights into not just the fashion industry, but the ways in which our physical shapes impact our daily lives. Mama Bears, we know just how hard it can be to be a woman in our culture. The expectations on our physical bodies, the objectification, and the pressures of aging in a culture that often does not value aging—specifically for women. We want to hear from YOU. What is it like being a woman for you? We aim to do a mid-week Mama Bear Mini on this subject and want to include some of your thoughts. Hit us up on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or on our email (mamabeardares@gmail.com) and tell us your story. We want to hear from you! LINKS: Find more of Sarah on the Colorado Springs Moms Blog! Hey! We’re online. Here’s where you can find us: Follow us on Facebook,

Episode 12: On Obsessions, Allergies, and Being Brave Apr 06, 2016

On this podcast we dig into a variety of topics on our Mama Bear Mini mid-week episode! We talk about our current favorite things, we offer some tips about nutrition and how to keep your family healthy over allergy season, and we discuss a pretty great article about raising daring girls. We also get down to the business of bravery and we try some new music for your listening pleasure. Don't forget to respond to this episode with your own tips, tricks, and interests du jour on any of our social media channels. We love hearing from you! Have a great week Mama Bears! LINKS:OBSESS SESH: Check out Tesi’s endorsement of Yeti HERE. Leslie is loving Rob Bell’s new book, HOW TO BE HERE. Tesi got a fab new raincoat! LET’S TALK ABOUT HEALTH, BABY: Who doesn't love the Neti Pot ? WE READ IT, WE LOVED IT, LET’S DISCUSS: 10 Ways to Raise Brave Girls, by Katie Arnold, Outside Magazine The Gutsy Girl: Escapades for Your Life of Epic Adventure, by Caroline Paul Article by Caroline Paul in the NYTimes:

Episode 11: Embracing the Yes Apr 04, 2016

What kind of woman says “yes” to becoming a foster care parent? What kind of woman says “yes” to adopting a child with known special needs? What kind of woman says "yes" to laughter, love, and generosity over and over again? Today we interview Jennie Peakin, a woman whose steady “yes” has changed her life in profound ways. A photographer by trade, we have a fascinating conversation with Jennie about art, photography, the miracle of making a family—by both birth and adoption—and experiencing it all from both behind a lens and up close and personal. Jennie shares her story as a woman, mother, and artist and we love her candor. Listen in and be inspired by her honesty, learn from her bravery, and delight in her authenticity. Follow Jennie’s lead and be open to the world. And then let us know...where does your “yes” take you? LINKS: Jennie’s photography: WEBFacebook Jennie’s wedding photography: WEBFacebook Jennie on Pinterest On Episode 10 we talk about fostering and adoption. Here are a few great websites with more information: Foster care in Iowa: Iowa Kids Net Domestic Adoption: Adopt US Kids Jennie and Leslie will be traveling to to Tanzania on a storytelling mission with Empower Tanzania. Hey! Mama Bear Dares is online! Here’s where you can find us: Follow us on Facebook

Episode 10: April Fool's Day Apr 01, 2016

We’ve made a lot of mistakes on this podcast. But we’ve also had a lot of fun! Listen in as we get real about the MBD process. We share our bloopers, funny moments, and what we've learned—all the while challenging Mama Bears to expand their comfort zone and act a fool! We’re online. Here’s where you can find us! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and let us know what you’re thinking! Don’t forget to subscribe on iTunes. We are having so much podcasting and really appreciate you listening!!

Episode 9: Let's Flex Mar 28, 2016

Have you ever thought about your tolerance for risk? Are you the kind of person who jumps into a new process feet first or do you take time to warm up? Do you stretch for your dreams in uncomfortable ways or do you rest in routine and maintain tight control of your circumstances when possible? In this episode of Mama Bear Dares, we test the necessity of daring to fail miserably in order to achieve greatly. We spend time in conversation with Amy Sivertsen, entrepreneur, business consultant, and co-owner of The Creative Collective. We ask Amy about her decision-making process, her career path, and her high tolerance for risk. Amy shares with us her story of making bold decisions in order to reach for the life she wants to live and encourages listeners to do the same. Mama Bear Dares is online. Here’s where you can find us: Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and let us know what you’re thinking! Don’t forget to subscribe on iTunes. We really appreciate your support!

Episode 8: No-Nonsense Parenting Mar 23, 2016

There are certain middle-class rituals that are so ingrained in us that we don’t really even stop to question why we do them. On today’s Mama Bear Dares, we discuss many of these rituals surrounding everyday parenting decisions that end up occupying precious brain-space. For instance, in raising children one can easily get caught up in the herd and find yourself making non-essential purchases and spending time, money, and a certain effort that you might really want to spend elsewhere. “No-nonsense parenting” is in some ways self protection from our busy, more-plus-more-plus-more culture and in other ways a philosophy that aims to teach independence and responsibility. Listen in as the Mama Bears discuss...and then join the conversation! LINKS: If you live in the Quad Cities, you should check out Junior Theatre! Today’s podcast is a short, 20-minute Mama Bear Dares episode and it begs for your feedback! Reach out on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram and let us know your reaction! In what ways are you a no-nonsense parent? In what ways do show your kids your tender loving care? How do you manage all the water bottles? (Leslie truly needs advice in this area.) We’d love to hear from you! Don’t forget to subscribe on

Episode 7: The Flow of Generosity Mar 21, 2016

It’s funny how things speak to us differently at different points in our lives. Some people hear a bit of wisdom and are changed forever, while others hear the same and remain untouched. Some of us walk right by potential, while others take pause and soak it up. In Zen philosophy it’s described like this: When the student is ready, the teacher appears. In this episode of Mama Bear Dares, we spend time in conversation with Beth Johnson and explore her unique journey, considering the way each of us is shaped by people, our surroundings, and what we consume. Beth shares her story of small graces and quiet action, encouraging listeners as she reflects on pivotal moments and influences in her life, and reminding us to be thoughtful with our lives and open to generosity in it all its forms. Show Notes: You will love the poet Mary Oliver. All of her poems are amazing. If you’re looking for a place to start, we recommend this book. An interesting look into Cabrini Green, upon its demolition.

Episode 6: Never Withhold a Compliment Mar 16, 2016

*Giveaway information: For a chance to win a box full of Leslie and Tesi’s favorites, subscribe to Mama Bear Dares on iTunes, rate us on iTunes, review us on iTunes, Like us on Facebook and Instagram, and follow us on Twitter. If you do all of the above, you’re entered SIX times! We will announce the winner next week on our social media outlets! On today’s podcast sisters-in-law Leslie and Tesi talk about the power of speaking positive words into the world. Leslie shares her struggle with seasonal depression and how a 70-year-old woman in a coffee shop changed her day and then her outlook with just a few words. The hosts talk about celebrating creation, giving authentic compliments, and brightening the world around you with pure intentions. They invite you to be aware of the life you live and train yourself to identify the beautiful...and then, when it’s appropriate, vocalize it! LINKS from the show: One of Leslie’s favorite blogs, Cup of Jo, had a great post about talking to little girls. Erin Haluska and her team at Inspire Motherhood are fantastic! Find them HERE. Shout out to Steph Files and her network of nationwide blogs for mamas. Find your city moms blog HERE or HERE. This podcast is a mid-week, 20-minute Mama Bear Mini podcast episode and it begs for your feedback! Reach out on Facebook, Twitter, or

Episode 5: I Am Love Mar 14, 2016

In a world that never turns off and encourages constant motion, we talk to mom and yoga instructor Chrissy Smith about how she faces each day with a clear purpose and mission to live in and love the moment. Because of the many directions in which we are pulled, many of us struggle with taking the time to care for ourselves. In this episode of Mama Bear Dares, Chrissy helps us understand the center of our being and the ways in which we can use the light from within for good. We spend time in conversation with Chrissy and come away feeling inspired by her perspective and refreshed by her thoughtful outlook on life. Chrissy radiates positivity that Mama Bears will capture and reflect from wherever they listen! For information on the 8 Limbs of Yoga, you can find a great summary HERE. You can find Anne Lamott’s Traveling Mercies HERE. What do you “live in”? Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, and let us know what you’re thinking! Don’t forget to subscribe on iTu

Episode 4: Tackling "Man Tasks" Mar 09, 2016

*Listen through to the end of this episode for information on our first giveaway!!! On today’s podcast sisters-in-law Leslie and Tesi talk about dividing up household duties in an intentionally non-gendered way. Tesi discloses her rockstar ability to change the oil in her family van and the goal she has set for herself to learn how to do more tasks generally carried out by the men in her life. The women discuss car maintenance, hanging picture frames, producing a podcast, as well as the impact this way of approaching household chores has had on their spouses and their children. Thanks so much to our sponsor SIS International! Please go to their website to shop extraordinary fair trade pieces. The hostesses of Mama Bear Dares go there first for any birthday or holiday gifts and know you won’t be disappointed! Here's the website: www.sisshops.com. *Giveaway information: For a chance to win a box full of Leslie and Tesi’s favorite fair trade items, subscribe to us on iTunes, rate us on iTunes, review us on iTunes, Like us on Facebook and Instagram, and follow us on Twitter. If you do all of the above, you’re entered SIX times! We will announce the winner next week on our social media outlets! This podcast is the first of many short, 20-minute Mama Bear Dares podcast episodes and each one produced begs for your feedback! Reach out on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram

Episode 3: Doing it Scared Mar 07, 2016

There’s a perception in our culture that if we face obstacles, the world is warning us that we are on the wrong path...or that if an idea terrifies us, it’s probably not worth doing. But on today’s podcast, Jody Landers proves that Mama Bears are born when we lean into fear and do what scares us. If anyone knows about doing big things in life despite being terrified, it’s Jody. With three healthy young boys already part of their brood, Jody and her husband Andy delivered Quincy. Born with a rare birth defect, Quincy spent weeks in the hospital and months in a body cast. It was in that hospital room that Jody’s Mama Bear was born. With the tenacity she found in that hospital room, Jody went on to adopt twins from Sierra Leone, organize a handful of moms to fill backpacks for foster care children, and raise over a half million dollars for clean water. A few years after that she and Becky Straw founded The Adventure Project from her home with her six children underfoot. Most recently Jody dove into a Kickstarter campaign to help launch her husband's musical career from a cult-like following to a national audience. Jody was terrified of doing all of these things—whether she entered willingly or was forced into them—but she did them anyway. A lesson to our Mama Bear community is to stop running from fear and dare to “do it scared.” A special thank you to Andrew Landers and Mainstreet Struggleville for our music for this episode. Learn more about Andy and download his extraordinary music at

Episode 2: Meet the Hostess, Part II Mar 04, 2016

Moms are complex creatures with incredible depth and layers of complexity. Even though Tesi and Leslie, the hosts of this podcast, have known each other for 14 years each conversation reveals something new. Such are the joys of long friendship—it’s our oldest and dearest friends that we never run out of things to discuss over coffee, wine, or via Skype. On this Mama Bear Dares podcast we meet Tesi Klipsch. Tesi lives in Michigan with her husband Zach and five children—born to her by birth and through adoption. Tesi tells us about her interest in health, fitness, and helping others discover their personal best, as well as the challenges and joys of raising five children, three of them whom were adopted from Ethiopia. Always quick to laugh, Tesi and Leslie enjoy a purposeful conversation that introduces you to one of the Mama Bears behind the podcast. Link to Tesi’s personal blog at www.TesiKlipsch.com. Follow along as she explores mothering older children, and her unique take on current events and race in America. Mama Bears reading list: Jhumpa Lahiri: http://smile.amazon.com/Interpreter-Maladies-Jhumpa-Lahiri/dp/039592720X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1456932914&sr=1-3&keywords=jhumpa+lahiri The Desire Map:

Episode I: Meet the Hostess, Part I Mar 04, 2016

In Mama Bear Dares inaugural podcasts, we aim to introduce you to the hosts of the show, Leslie and Tesi Klipsch. This pair of Midwestern women married brothers within months of each other and, for the last 14 years, have shared several life stages: the newlywed stage, the pregnant mamas-to-be stage, the new parenthood stage, and, most recently, a move to the world of adolescent shepherding. Through it all they’ve laughed a lot. And talk a lot. And shared a passion of encouraging those around them to love the world. Today we introduce you to Leslie, a mom to three through birth and adoption, a writer, and a woman who recently added a puppy to her life. Tesi and Leslie talk about the believing in who you are, the ins and outs of everyday life and how it shapes you as a person, and the importance of self care amidst work and parenthood. Watch for updates and the release of Leslie’s first book, Mama Bear's Manifesto, on her author website! www.leslieklipsch.com Interested in coworking in Eastern Iowa/Western Illinois? Check out the coworking space Leslie founded with her partner Amy in November. www.coworkqc.com Follow us on Facebook, Twitter (@mambeardares) and Instagram (mamabeardarespodcast). And don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes!

Sneak Peak! Mar 04, 2016

Take a glimpse of what's to come on the Mama Bear Dares Podcast! If you like what you hear and are curious to learn more, please subscribe on iTunes, follow us on FB, Twitter, and Instagram, and check out our website! Thanks for listening. We hope you'll become a part of our Mama Bear Community!

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