3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms

A quick update from Rachel! www.3in30podcast.com/freeclass

Have you ever been told that your perfectionism is a problem? Maybe you’ve felt like it’s the reason you’re stressed, restless, or never satisfied with yourself. But what if perfectionism isn’t actually the enemy? What if it’s a form of power that, when channeled with compassion, can actually bring you more joy and meaning? In this episode, I’m joined by Katherine Morgan Schafler, a psychotherapist and the author of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control. Katherine offers a refreshing perspective: perfectionism doesn’t need to be “fixed” or hidden—it can be embraced and redirected in healthier, more adaptive ways. In this conversation, you’ll learn: 💜 The hidden difference between an idealist and a perfectionist—and why the distinction matters for how you show up in your daily life. 💜 A simple, practical exercise to clarify your values in this season of life, and why naming the values you won’t focus on is just as important 💜 Why so many “helpful” mantras for moms miss the mark—and how to reframe them in a way that feels empowering instead of dismissive. Whether you’ve always identified as a perfectionist or you’re simply curious about new ways to frame personal growth, Katherine’s insights will encourage you to rethink your tendencies with kindness and clarity. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: You're invited to my FREE Masterclass How to Lighten the Mental Load of Motherhood on September 10, 12, or 16. Using the Self-Assured Motherhood framework (the SAM6) I'll give you tools and perspective shifts to help you carry the load with more steadiness, clarity, and peace.   🎁 Plus, we’ll be giving away one free Skylight Calendar at each class to someone in attendance! You can sign up ⁠⁠here⁠⁠! Related Episodes: 267: How to Stop Procrastinating in the New Year // Monica Packer 413: What to Do When You’re Juggling Too Much // Amy Wilson 421: Overwhelmed with Housework? You’re not alone. // KC Davis Episode Sponsors: Skylight: Go to skylightcal.com/TAKEAWAYS for $30 off your 15 inch Calendar. Skylight also offers a guarantee—if in 120 days you are not 100% thrilled with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund. No questions asked. Factor: Eat smart at FactorMeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50% off your first box, plus Free Breakfast for 1 Year. (Offer only valid for new Factor customers with code and qualifying auto-renewing subscription purchase.) Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Many moms hesitate to set boundaries because they don’t want to seem selfish or unkind. But what if boundaries are actually one of the most compassionate things you can offer to yourself and to the people you love?   In this special episode, I’m sharing an interview I did with JoAnn Crohn of the No Guilt Mom Podcast for her Happy Mom Summit. JoAnn graciously gave permission for me to re-air our conversation here, and I can’t wait for you to listen. Together, we dive into: 🫶 Why boundaries are actually acts of love, not selfishness 🫶 How to articulate your boundaries in a way that is clear and kind 🫶 What to do when others push back, and how holding your boundaries can strengthen trust in your relationships If you’ve ever struggled with resentment, exhaustion, or guilt when trying to meet everyone’s needs, this episode will give you practical tools and encouragement to start setting boundaries that feel aligned and compassionate. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Sign up for my FREE Masterclass: How to Lighten Your Mental Load. Setting clear boundaries is one way to significantly lighten your mental load as a mom, and I'm going to teach you several others in this free zoom class to help you feel calmer, more confident, and more in control! Related Episodes: 437: Boundaries and Emotional Resilience in Motherhood // Dr. Jen Riday 379: Principle #4 // Bolster Your Boundaries [The SAM Framework] 413: What to Do When You’re Juggling Too Much // Amy Wilson Episode Sponsors: goPure Beauty: For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code 3in30 at checkout. Just head to gopurebeauty.com, use code 3in30, and you’re all set. And after you buy, do us a favor—when they ask where you heard about goPure, tell them it was from our show! Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Have you ever wondered why it’s so hard to stick to goals that matter to you, but you can follow through easily when someone else is counting on you? Or why one of your children seems to resist every rule, while another lives for structure and routine? This week’s guest, Sarah Joslin, walks us through a personality framework that has the power to transform the way we see ourselves and our kids. Based on The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin, this simple but powerful model explains how we each respond to expectations—and how we can use that understanding to build better routines, boundaries, and relationships in our homes. In this episode, you’ll hear: 🫶 How understanding your own patterns can help you stop self-sabotaging and start making aligned choices 🫶 What might be happening beneath the surface when your child resists your requests or breaks down over structure 🫶 The surprising reason one-size-fits-all parenting strategies rarely work... and what to do instead Whether you’ve taken The Four Tendencies Quiz or this is your first introduction to the concept, this conversation is a helpful, judgment-free starting point for anyone who wants to show up with more clarity and compassion for themselves and the people they love most. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: 📣 Click here for Sarah's handout that will summarize The 4 Tendencies and how they look in motherhood. 📣 The doors to the annual SAM Program will be opening in a couple of weeks! Join the waitlist to receive the best discount when doors open in September! 📣 Want to join SAM, but finances make that impossible? We're offering full and partial scholarships for the Self-Assured Motherhood program, and applications are open now through August 29th. Related Episodes: 426: What to Do When You Don’t Like Your Kid (Even Though You Love Them!) 368: Using the Enneagram to Improve our Relationships // Kelsey Lincoln 314: How to Feel like Yourself in Motherhood // Aleisha McKean Episode Sponsors: BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. AirDoctorPro: Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code 3IN30 to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a free 3-year warranty—an $84 value! Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

As school routines settle back in, many moms start looking for a better rhythm with meals—something that feels less chaotic and more doable.   But for many moms (myself included), feeding a family brings up more stress than we’d like to admit. We put so much pressure on ourselves to do it “right,” and when our kids complain or the fridge is empty or we’re too tired to cook, it’s easy to feel like we’re failing. And if you’re dealing with a picky eater (or a few!), that stress can multiply quickly. If that’s you, I really want you to hear this week’s conversation with my friend and SAM Sister, Celeste Noland. She’s a mom of five with a deeply grounded and grace-filled approach to family meals—and I think her ideas will bring you both relief and fresh energy. In this episode, you’ll hear: 🍕The surprising connection between food struggles and nervous system dysregulation—and how to create more calm around the table. 🍕 Practical, doable strategies for when you're too burned out to make one more decision about dinner. 🍕Why giving yourself permission to break the rules might be the key to making meals feel joyful again. Let this episode be your permission slip to make things easier, lighter, and a whole lot more realistic, starting today. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: To get the free printable recapping Celeste's E.A.T. Framework, click here. The doors to the annual SAM Program will be opening in less than one month! Join the waitlist to receive the best discount when doors open in September. Related Episodes: 347: When Making Dinner Feels Like Drudgery // Rachel on Didn’t I Just Feed You Podcast 302: How to Heal Your Relationship with Food // Natalie Shay 255: How to Get Family Dinner on the Table (+ Why It Matters!) // Kelsey Nixon Episode Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/3IN30 today to learn more and find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you.  GoPure Beauty: For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code 3in30 at checkout. Just head to gopurebeauty.com, use code 3in30, and you’re all set. And after you buy, do us a favor—when they ask where you heard about goPure, tell them it was from our show! BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

When you think about decorating your home, do you feel inspired... or just overwhelmed? Many moms dismiss design as something extra or unnecessary. But what if creating a space you love could actually support your well-being, reduce stress, and help you feel more grounded in your motherhood? In this episode, I’m joined by Valerie Bradshaw, a longtime Self-Assured Motherhood Sister and home design enthusiast, who shares how to approach decorating with color, confidence, and alignment with your personal values. It’s not about impressing others—it’s about creating an environment that reflects who you are and how you want to feel in your home. Together, we explore why our surroundings matter so much, and how simple, intentional design choices can transform not just our spaces but our mindset, energy, and even our relationships. In this conversation, you’ll learn: 🌷 How a famous study revealed that beautiful spaces can change how we see other people 🌷 Why decorating your home might actually help you like your kids more (really!) 🌷 A mindset shift that will free you from comparison and help you embrace your own version of beauty Whether you love design or feel completely out of your depth, this episode will give you a fresh lens (and a gentle roadmap) for creating a space that feels like you. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Click here for Valerie's handout that will guide you through decorating a room in your home. The doors to the annual SAM Program will be opening in less than one month! Join the waitlist to receive the best discount when doors open in September. Related Episodes: 428: What Fashion Taught Me About Motherhood (Yes, Really!) // Julie Allen 321: How to Design a Home Full of Stories // Carly Thornock 374: Using Values to Guide Your Spending // Jen Smith of Frugal Friends Podcast Episode Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/3IN30 today to learn more and find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you. Skylight Calendar: Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15 inch Calendars by going to skylightcal.com/takeaways. Factor: Get started at factormeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

We talk a lot about self-care as moms, but most of the time, the examples we’re given (bubble baths, massages, solo Target runs) only scratch the surface.   The truth is, there’s not one kind of self-care. There are actually several distinct forms of care we need, and they each serve a different purpose in our lives and in our motherhood. When we only reach for one type, it makes sense that we still feel burned out, even after “taking a break.” This week on the podcast, I’m joined by self-care coach Mia Hemstad, who shares her simple, powerful framework: The 4B’s of Self-Care© to help us better identify what we need (and when!). You'll hear: 💜 The four distinct types of self-care (and why each one matters) 💜 How to identify which kind you’re craving (and which one you’ve been avoiding) 💜 The surprising connection between mental clutter and unfinished tasks 💜 How to release guilt and give yourself permission to meet your needs with intention This conversation beautifully supports the fourth principle of the Self-Assured Motherhood Framework: Sanctify Your Soul-Care—and it's the perfect time, whether you're still in the thick of summer or easing into back-to-school rhythms, to pause, check in, and reflect on what kind of care you need most right now. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: The Self-Assured Motherhood program opens again next month! If this episode resonates, be sure to get on the interest list here. You can get Mia’s free printable guide to the Four B’s here. Related Episodes: 438: How Soul-Care Can Help You Enjoy Motherhood More: Real Stories from Moms Like You // SAM Sisters 380: Principle #5 // Sanctify Your Soul-Care [The SAM Framework] 320: Making Space for Self-Care: It Might Not Be As Hard As You Think // Dr. Nicole Sparks Episode Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/3IN30 today to learn more and find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. KiwiCo: Tinker, Create, and Innovate with KiwiCo! Get up to 50% off your first crate at kiwico.com, promo code 3in30 Let’s Connect: Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Oh, the stories I could tell about raising a strong-willed child.   But the truth is, if you have a spicy one of your own, you don’t need to hear my stories because you’ve got plenty of your own! Parenting an intense, persistent, sensitive kiddo is a daily rollercoaster. And sometimes, what you need most isn’t another “quick fix”… it’s a wise, compassionate mentor who truly gets it. That’s why I’m so excited to re-share this conversation with Mary Van Geffen, an international parenting coach who specializes in helping moms of "spicy" ones. Mary’s work is rooted in self-compassion, calm leadership, and connection over control - and her advice is the kind that actually works for kids who don’t respond to conventional parenting strategies. This episode is part of our SAM 6 Summer Series, where we’re exploring the six principles of the Self-Assured Motherhood Framework. Today’s focus is the sixth and final principle: Support Their Struggles. It’s about showing up for your child with tenderness in their hardest moments - and learning how to support yourself in the process, too. In this episode, you’ll hear: 🌶️ What to do when your child’s intensity makes you wonder if you’re the problem 🌶️ A daily mindset mantra that can transform how you see your spicy one 🌶️ Why your physical posture might be sending your child a louder message than your words Whether your summer has been sweet, spicy, or somewhere in between, I hope this episode will remind you that you’re not alone… and you’re doing better than you think. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Want to reflect on how you’re really doing in motherhood right now? Take the free Self-Assured Motherhood Framework Assessment. It’s a quick check-in that gives you a visual snapshot of where you’re thriving and where you might need more support. Related Episodes: 426: What to Do When You Don’t Like Your Kid (Even Though You Love Them!) 423: How to Parent a Strong-Willed Child Without Losing Your Mind // Kirk Martin 357: Tips for Staying Calm During Your Big Kid’s Big Meltdowns // Cheryl Cardall Episode Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/TAKEAWAYS today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now. Skylight Calendar: Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15 inch Calendars by going to skylightcal.com/takeaways. GoPure: For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code 3in30 at checkout. Just head to gopurebeauty.com, use code 3in30, and you’re all set. Motherhood Decluttered Course: My Motherhood Decluttered audio course is a step-by-step guide to help you inventory your overwhelm, edit your expectations, and make room for more joy. It comes with a free Buddy Pass so you can do it with a friend, so go to 3in30podcast.com/declutter to learn more. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Ever found yourself stuck in a cycle of constant correction, nagging, lecturing, or repeating yourself while your kids seem to tune you out? It happens to almost every parent at some point. In the moment, it can feel like the only option… but learning a new way of responding can be a game-changer. Today’s guest, Ralphie Jacobs of Simply On Purpose, shares three powerful tools that can shift the emotional climate in your home by focusing on connection, encouragement, and play (rather than punishment or control). She teaches that one of the most effective ways to improve behavior is also one of the simplest: notice what your kids are doing right. Tune in to learn: 💡 The parenting habit that’s scientifically proven to reduce misbehavior by 80% 💡 What to say instead of “stop that” when your child is doing something you don’t like 💡 The surprising way to turn a meltdown around - using humor, imagination, or even Altoids This episode is a beautiful example of the fifth principle in my Self-Assured Motherhood Framework, Gather the Good, which is all about learning to see and savor the small moments of beauty in your day. Because what you focus on grows. And when you start focusing on the good in your kids, your home, and yourself… it changes everything. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Motherhood is always evolving (and so are we!). If you’re looking for a simple way to check in with yourself and see where you’re currently thriving and where you might want more support, take my free Self-Assured Motherhood Framework Assessment. Related Episodes: 304: Motherhood is hard. This helps. 426: What to Do When You Don’t Like Your Kid (Even Though You Love Them!) 434: How to Actually Enjoy Summer as a Mom Episode Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/TAKEAWAYS today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. GoPure: For a limited time, our listeners get 25% off goPure with code 3in30 at checkout. Just head to gopurebeauty.com, use code 3in30, and you’re all set. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

This conversation is full of gentle reminders and practical ideas for building rhythms of care into your everyday life... so you’re not just making it through motherhood, you’re actually enjoying it.   You’ll hear from three incredible moms: Celeste, Tiffany, and Abby, who each found their own way to prioritize soul care. Not the spa-day kind, but the kind that fits into the cracks of real life. The kind that helps you feel more like yourself again. In this episode, you’ll hear: 💜 How to kindly remind yourself that you matter too, even on the hardest days 💜 A powerful wake-up call one mom had while tracking her time—and what she changed as a result 💜 A creative way to infuse soul care into kid-filled outings, so you can show up fully and savor the moment These stories beautifully illustrate one of the core principles of my Self-Assured Motherhood framework: Sanctify Your Soul Care. When we honor our whole selves (body, mind, and spirit!), we show up with more strength, more presence, and more joy for the people we love most. You are worth caring for, and this episode will remind you how to start. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: If today’s conversation resonates, I know you’ll love the ⁠Self-Assured Motherhood Framework Assessment⁠—a free tool to help you see where you're thriving and where you may need more support in your emotional well-being. Related Episodes: 170: Taking Care of Mama after a Baby // Andrea Faulkner Williams of Tubby Todd Bath Co. 318: Combating Emotional Fatigue while Caregiving // Dr. Chelsea Jackson Roberts 320: Making Space for Self-Care: It Might Not Be As Hard As You Think // Dr. Nicole Sparks Related Sponsors: K12: Go to K12.com/TAKEAWAYS today to find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you and enroll now. Skylight: Go to Skylightcal.com/takeaways for $30 off your 15-inch Calendar. Factor: Get started at factormeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box.AirDoctor: Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code 3IN30 to get UP TO $300 off today! AirDoctor comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a free 3-year warranty—an $84 value! Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Emotional resilience is one of the most powerful skills you can develop as a mom - and let’s be honest, it’s also one of the hardest to master.   From toddler tantrums to teen drama, from work stress to family dynamics… there’s no shortage of moments that can leave you feeling stretched thin and emotionally spent. And there’s no season that tests this quite like summer, when the routines are loose, the noise is constant, and everyone seems to need something from you all day long. That’s why I’m re-airing this powerful conversation with Dr. Jen Riday, a mom of six with a PhD in Human Development and Family Studies and host of the Vibrant Happy Women podcast. Jen combines research-backed wisdom with real-life experience to help women build emotional resilience... and the healthy boundaries that make it possible. Because here’s the truth: You can’t be emotionally resilient without boundaries. Boundaries aren’t about controlling others, they’re about protecting your peace. Learning to say, “This is what I will do to care for myself,” is one of the most courageous and transformative skills you can develop as a mom. In this episode, you’ll learn: 🔅 The mindset shift that helps you stop absorbing everyone else’s emotions 🔅 A simple way to create emotional “margin” in your day (no bubble baths required) 🔅 How to set boundaries that actually stick—without guilt or drama If you’re feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or emotionally drained this summer… this episode is for you. For full show notes and takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Wondering how you're doing in motherhood? Grab your free SAM Framework Assessment today! Related Episodes: 251: How to Set Boundaries with your Children // Stacey Collins 258: Boundaries with Kids Part 2 // Stacey Collins 136: How to Set Loving Limits with your Children, Part 1 // Dr. Katie Penry 137: How to Set Loving Boundaries for your Children, Part 2 // Dr. Katie Penry Episode Sponsors: Zocdoc: Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to zocdoc.com/3in30 to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. KiwiCo: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series. Head to kiwicode.com/3in30 and use promo code 3in30. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Ever catch yourself comparing your motherhood to someone else’s? In this heartfelt episode, my friend and motherhood mentor, Julie Bastedo, shares how a simple moment of comparison while cooking dinner led her to a powerful mindset shift: you don’t have to be all the things—you just have to be yourself. This conversation is a beautiful example of the second principle in my Self-Assured Motherhood framework: Celebrate Your Strengths. When we stop trying to be the mom we think we should be, and start honoring the mom we are, everything changes. Tune in to hear: 💜 A surprising mindset shift that can instantly deflate mom guilt 💜 A practical trick for quieting comparison (it involves a sticky note!) 💜 Why one of the kindest things you can do for yourself is unfollow 💜 How embracing your “non-strengths” can actually increase your confidence As you listen to this conversation, I hope you feel what I always feel when I talk to Julie: less pressure, more peace, and more acceptance of who you are. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: If today’s conversation resonates, I know you’ll love the Self-Assured Motherhood Framework Assessment—a free tool to help you see where you're thriving and where you may need more support in your emotional well-being. Related Episodes: 428: What Fashion Taught Me About Motherhood (Yes, Really!) // Julie Allen 410: Align Your Goal-Setting with Your Menstrual Cycle // April Davis of Haus of Vagina 314: How to Feel like Yourself in Motherhood // Aleisha McKean Episode Sponsors: Tushbaby:  Visit tushbaby.com and start customizing your own carrier. Make sure to use code 3in30 for 20% off your first order. Summer Survival Guide: I want to make sure you know about an amazing resource my team created. It is a summer hacks PDF, full of activity ideas for the whole family, sanity saving tips for parents, and road trip ideas. This is a curated list of ideas our team has used and found successful over the years. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by a decision–spinning in circles, overanalyzing every possible outcome, and feeling like you can’t move forward until you get it just right–I'm here to tell you that the struggle is SO real. I’ve been there. In fact, decision-making used to be one of my biggest struggles as a mom.   But over the past few years, I’ve been on a quiet quest to become a more confident, grounded, and calm decision maker. And one of the people who has helped me the most on this journey is today’s guest: Kendra Adachi, the two-time New York Times bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way and The Lazy Genius Kitchen. In this episode, Kendra shares three practical mindset shifts that can help you feel less frantic and more empowered the next time you’re faced with a decision–whether it’s what to make for dinner or whether to buy a piece of land for your dream home. Tune in to learn: 💡 A simple strategy that builds your confidence as a decision-maker (and why you should start with the little things) 💡 The powerful question that brings instant clarity when you’re overwhelmed by too many options 💡 How to avoid making “everything matter” during the decision-making process This conversation is a beautiful example of the first principle in my Self-Assured Motherhood Framework—Voice Your Values—which is all about getting clear on what matters most to you so you can make aligned decisions in your motherhood. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Grab my free Values Guide at 3in30podcast.com/values to explore what your values are. Record your golden moments this summer with my Flecks of Gold journal. Related Episodes: 349: Overcoming Decision Fatigue through Reflection // Emily P. Freeman 375: 3 Ways Voicing Your Values will Help Lighten Your Mental Load // Rachel Nielson on the Happy Mom Summit 269: How to Create a Morning Routine that will Last // Sara Dean Episode Sponsors: Skylight: Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15-inch calendars by going to skylightcal.com/takeaways. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Summer can be such a gift—but it can also feel like a lot. Whether you're a few days in or several weeks deep, this season tends to stretch us in new ways as moms. We want to make memories, stay present, and still meet our own needs—but how? In this solo episode, I’m introducing you to the SAM 6, a new streamlined version of the Self-Assured Motherhood framework that I’ve been teaching for years. These six principles are designed to help you feel more grounded, fulfilled, and confident in your motherhood, including during the summer months. If you’ve ever felt burned out from doing “all the things” or unsure of how to balance your kids’ needs with your own, this episode will help you recalibrate. I’ll walk you through each of the six principles and offer simple, specific ways you can apply them to your summer, so you can enjoy this season more fully and in a way that truly reflects you. In this episode, you’ll discover: ☀️ Why you might be feeling burned out—and how to get back into alignment ☀️ A simple mindset shift that can help you enjoy your summer more (even in the chaos) ☀️ What your calendar might be saying about your true values For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Take the Self-Assured Motherhood Assessment Grab a Flecks of Gold Journal – use code SUMMER for 10% off Related Episodes: 315: A Word from our SAM Sisters 371: 3 Spaces to Organize for the Most Summer Fun // Jen Martin from Reset Your Nest 427: A Simple Framework for a “Balanced Summer” // Jenny Layton Episode Sponsors: Factor Meals: Factor meals arrive fresh and ready to eat. Get started at factormeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Making new friends as an adult is challenging—and motherhood often makes it even harder. Between family responsibilities, full schedules, and emotional fatigue, it can feel like there’s no space left for connection. And even when we do show up, it’s not always easy to know how to move from polite small talk to real, meaningful friendship. In this episode, psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Marisa G. Franco joins me to unpack why friendship often feels so complicated in adulthood—and how we can begin to build the kind of relationships we long for. Whether you’re starting from scratch or hoping to deepen the friendships you already have, this conversation will give you both clarity and compassion for where you are—and the tools to take a small step forward. This episode will help you: 🤗 Break out of the “I showed up but still feel lonely” cycle 🤗 Rewire your mindset to believe people actually want to be your friend (because they do!) 🤗 Recognize the hidden habits that may be quietly sabotaging your ability to connect 🤗 Learn what to do when you feel like you’re trying…but still not clicking with anyone If friendship has felt harder than you expected in this season of life, this episode will remind you that you’re very much not alone—and that meaningful connection is still possible. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Related Episodes: 400: 3 Modern Manners for Friendship // Brooke Romney 386: Raising Securely Attached Kids // Eli Harwood, MA, LPC 417: The Sneaky Ways Comparison Creeps Into Conversations (and How to Stop It) // Kathie Gwilliam Episode Sponsors: Brightbox: Go to brightboxes.com to check out all their thoughtful options. Whether you're sending encouragement, appreciation, or just a little joy, Brightbox makes it easy to spread light. Factor: Get started at factormeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

We want to raise kids who are responsible, capable, and financially wise—but it’s hard to know where to start. It can feel especially tricky to teach life skills like money management and personal responsibility without constant reminding or frustration.   In this episode, I’m joined by Saren Eyre Loosli, founder of Power of Families and one of my earliest parenting mentors. Saren is a mom of five and a family systems expert who shares a simple, sustainable way to teach these skills within the flow of everyday life—without turning your home into a battleground. Summer is an ideal time to reset routines and try something new. This episode will give you practical tools and a clear framework to help your family work together more smoothly. You’ll hear: 💰 A clear structure for helping kids earn and manage their own money 💰 How to connect allowance to responsibility and attitude, not just tasks 💰 A system for daily routines that fosters independence and ownership 💰 Tools for tracking money and chores that work for all ages This conversation is both practical and encouraging, especially if you’ve been wanting more clarity (and less conflict) around chores, allowance, and life skills at home. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Related Episodes: 369: How to Teach Your Kids about Money // Abby Chipman 350: Rethinking Chores: A Quick Mindset Shift to Help with Overwhelm 373: Teaching Children to Work Without Being a Drill Sergeant // Danielle Porter Episode Sponsors: Zocdoc: Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/3in30 to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. KiwiCo: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/3in30. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

Summer is almost here… which means it’s road trip season! If you’re gearing up for some long drives with your kids in tow, this episode is packed with practical tips to help make those hours in the car smoother, more fun, and a little less chaotic.    Brittney Hanks—mom of four and the genius behind Home and Kind—is here to share her favorite road trip hacks that she’s developed over years of cross-country drives with her kids. She’s all about simple systems that ease the mental load for moms and bring more connection and joy into everyday moments. Whether you're a seasoned road tripper or just trying to survive your first long haul with littles, Brittany’s creative ideas will have you feeling calm, confident, and ready to roll. In this episode, you’ll learn: 🚗 A clever way to visually track your progress (and keep kids from asking “Are we there yet?” every five minutes) 🚗 How to turn a gas station stop into a fun, energy-boosting family relay 🚗 The best podcasts and audiobooks for a variety of ages that the whole family will enjoy 🚗 Why embracing flexibility—and letting some of your usual rules slide—can actually lead to more meaningful connection You’ll come away from this conversation feeling inspired and equipped to make your summer road trips less stressful and a lot more special. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Click here to receive my Travel Hacks for Families handout Related Episodes: 402: How to Travel More as a Family without Breaking the Bank // Amber Paul 363: Tips & Tricks for Family Travel // Meesha Slade 370: How to Adventure As a Family // Chamaine WollenzeinEpisode Sponsors: Zocdoc: Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to Zocdoc.com/3in30 to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today. Storyworth: Give the “dads” in your life a unique, heartfelt gift you’ll all cherish for years—Storyworth! Right now, save $10 during their Father’s Day sale when you go to Storyworth.com/3in30! Skylight: Right now, Skylight is offering our listeners $30 off their 15-inch Calendars by going to Skylightcal.com/takeaways. Aquatru: Today my listeners receive 20% OFF any AquaTru purifier! Just go to AquaTru.com and enter code “3IN30” at checkout. Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

What if your next family trip wasn’t about packing in more—but about slowing down, connecting, and actually enjoying your time together? This week, I'm joined by family travel expert Meggie Busath, who shares practical ways to bring more intention, connection, and joy to your trips—without overcomplicating things or blowing your budget. In this episode, you’ll learn: 🫶 How to stop overcomplicating travel—and focus on what actually matters to your family 🫶 Why your attitude as the parent is the most important factor in whether a trip feels successful 🫶 Practical strategies for navigating inevitable bumps in the road (without losing your cool) 🫶 The small, intentional choices—like what snacks you pack or when you schedule screen time—that can make a huge difference for your kids If you're craving more connection and less chaos in your family travels, this episode is filled with ideas to help you get there. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: Grab my FREE Travel Hacks for Families Guide to help with your summer travel plans! Related Episodes: 431: 3 Road Trip Hacks for Traveling with Kids // Brittney Hanks 363: Tips & Tricks for Family Travel // Meesha Slade 402: How to Travel More as a Family without Breaking the Bank // Amber Paul Episode Sponsors: Kiwi Co: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com/3in30. Factor: Get started at factormeals.com/3in3050off and use code 3in3050off to get 50 percent off plus FREE shipping on your first box. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. Let’s Connect: Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***

If you’ve ever felt like the problems of the world are too big, and your influence is too small to matter, this conversation with Sharon McMahon will help you realize how powerful even just your small actions can be.   Sharon is a former high school government teacher turned trusted online educator and advocate. In her new book The Small and the Mighty, she highlights 12 lesser-known Americans whose quiet courage changed history. In this episode, she shares the stories of three women whose steady choices and persistence still shape our world today—and shows how small, consistent actions in your own life can create a ripple effect too. Tune in to hear: 🌎 Why doing the next needed thing can be the most impactful—and most accessible—form of change 🌎 How helping just one person can expand your capacity, bring you hope, and ripple outward in unseen ways 🌎 What it looks like to keep showing up, even when others don’t understand or support you Sharon’s storytelling is rich and inspiring, and her perspective will help you reframe your role as a mother, a neighbor, and a citizen. You don’t need to be extraordinary to do something that matters. You just need to begin. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Announcements: If you love this conversation, grab the worksheet that my team made to go along with this episode, where you can think through Sharon's takeaways and brainstorm how they apply to your life right now. It includes some of Sharon's best quotes and some thought-provoking questions to help you apply what you learn today. Related Episodes: 392: How to Have Grace-Filled Political Conversations with Family & Friends // Sarah Stewart Holland & Beth Silvers of Pantsuit Politics 256: Why “Unsexy” Elections Matter and How to Get Involved as a Busy Mom // Laney Hawes 051: How (and Why) to Get Involved in the Political Process as a Mom // Lacey Parr Episode Sponsors: Tushbaby: Visit Tushbaby.com and start customizing your own carrier. Make sure to use code 3IN30 for 20% off your first order. Nutrafol: For a limited time, Nutrafol is offering our listeners $10 off your first month’s subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter the promo code 3IN30. AirDoctor: Head to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code 3IN30 to get UP TO $300 off today! Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course

I've never considered myself a person who cares about fashion or "style" so when I first stumbled across Julie Allen on Instagram, I didn’t expect to stick around. But something about the way she talked about clothes felt different. It was kind, approachable, and freeing. Julie teaches women how to embrace style tools instead of style rules, and as I listened to her, I realized how much that philosophy overlaps with how I think about motherhood. There’s no one right way to be a mom—or to get dressed. It’s about finding what fits you and building a life you love from there. Julie is a mom of six and a style educator who’s passionate about helping women reconnect with themselves through the way they show up each day. In this episode, she shares three style principles that double as beautiful life lessons for moms—and they might just shift the way you think about both your wardrobe and your parenting. We’ll talk about: ✨ How to use style (and motherhood) tools instead of rigid rules ✨ Why you’re allowed to express different parts of yourself—on any given day ✨ The importance of building your motherhood on a foundation of your core values Whether or not you’ve ever cared much about fashion, this episode will help you feel more confident in showing up as you. For full show notes, including takeaways, click here. *** Related Episodes: 201: Living your Life’s Purpose in Every Stage // Brooke Snow 297: 3 Secrets to Confidence in Motherhood 354: Letting Go of Heavy Expectations of Yourself // Sneak Peek from the Declutter your Motherhood Audio Course   Episode Sponsors: Team Supercrew: Visit teamsupercrew.com and use the code 3in30 at checkout to get 10% off your order. You’ll also get a free gift—step-by-step reading and play guides to help you reinforce the lessons in simple, powerful ways. BetterHelp: 3 in 30 Takeaways for Moms is sponsored by BetterHelp. Go to betterhelp.com/3in30 to get 10% off your first month of online therapy. KiwiCo: Build the best summer ever with KiwiCo! Get $15 off on your Summer Adventure Series at kiwico.com.   Let's Connect! Join me on Instagram! Get weekly-ish emails with BTS of my life Find Your Magic in Motherhood: Free 3-Day Email Course ***