Momarchy with Sarah & Tanya

Civic engagement isn’t just voting every few years. So what does it look like in real life for parents? Because if change isn’t coming from the top, it has to come from us, by building power locally.In this episode, we’re joined by Emma Bloomberg, founder and CEO of Murmuration, an organization strengthening democracy by equipping local civic groups and everyday people with the tools to build power where they live. Emma has spent her career at the intersection of public service, philanthropy, and civic tech, focused on how democratic engagement really works on the ground, not just in theory.We dive into why parent voices matter so much, what grassroots organizations are up against, and why lasting change takes long-term support, not quick fixes. Emma shares how Murmuration uses tech and data tools to help local organizations grow their impact, build stronger coalitions, and move communities forward. She also breaks down why the best progress doesn’t come from waiting on one national leader to save the day, but from people coming together locally showing up, staying connected, and staying engaged beyond election season. We talk about how civic responsibility fits into parenting, the power of human connection, and what gives Emma hope for the future.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay civically engaged without burning out—or how to turn “I care about this” into real action this episode is for you.Learn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We entered the year with fresh calendars but quickly realized survival was the only real goal.In this episode, we talk through the very real energy of 2026 so far, one marked by political noise, parenting overload, and the realization that “doing it all” is no longer the goal. Instead, we’re leaning into our survival kits, lowered expectations, and doing what we can to keep life moving without burning out.We unpack what modern motherhood looks like when everything feels loud at once, from toddler gymnastics and calendar chaos to learning when to say no, step back from doomscrolling, and protect our peace. We talk about why boundaries matter more than ever, and how adjusting expectations can be an act of survival, not failure.We also share what feels actionable right now supporting local efforts, focusing on community impact, and resisting the pressure to carry the weight of everything at once. Sometimes it’s the small, practical choices that help us get through the collective chaos we’re all navigating this year.We discuss: (0:00) - Introduction & Welcome to Momarchy(5:44) - The Traitors Drama: Michael & Colton Discussion(11:41) - Year of the Horse: Fresh Start for 2026(14:29) - Parenthood Survival Kit: Toddler Gymnastics & Lowered Expectations(23:18) - Politics Survival Kit: Opting Out of Doom Scrolling(31:30) - Taking Action: Supporting Your Community(34:47) - Bonus Round: Non-Negotiable Boundaries for 2026(44:48) - Ask Momarchy Lightning Round(49:13) - Wrap Up & Next Week's Guest: Emma BloombergLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pregnancy is supposed to come with prenatal appointments and baby name debates not lawyers, hospital refusals, and life-or-death decisions.In this episode of Momarchy, we sit down with Amanda Zurawski for a conversation that moves from light and funny to devastatingly real. Amanda shares what life looked like before a pregnancy complication collided with Texas’s abortion laws. At 18 weeks pregnant, she experienced PPROM and was denied the medical care she needed. She walks us through the fear, confusion, and medical crisis that followed, including septic shock and the loss of her fertility. The systems meant to protect her nearly cost her life.We talk about what it means to live in a state where healthcare comes with legal caveats, why Amanda decided to sue the state of Texas, and the emotional toll of becoming the public face of a fight she never asked to join. Amanda also shares how community, anger, and hope have shaped her advocacy, and what she wants future generations to understand about reproductive freedom.(0:00) Introduction(0:41) Millennial Mom Check-In(3:39) Listener Suggestions(6:06) 2026 vs 2016(8:24) Episode Preview: Pregnancy Laws(12:08) Interview with Amanda Begins(12:33) Rapid Fire Questions(17:08) Amanda's Life Before(20:02) The Medical Emergency(28:23) Suing the State of Texas(31:52) Life in the Public Eye(36:31) Make It Make Sense(39:36) Motherhood and Hope(44:34) Closing Thoughts(45:59) OutroLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adoption is often talked about as one big happy ending but getting there often comes with heartbreak along the way.In this episode, we sit down with our friend Alvina Vasquez to talk about herthe long and, complicated road to parenthood. We begin with lighter moments and quick rapid-fire favorites before moving into the systems that shape so many of our lives, including ICE, Trump-era policies, and the ways political decisions ripple through families and communities.From there, the conversation turns personal as Alvina shares her experience with miscarriages, IVF, and private adoption. She walks us through the emotional highs and lows of a failed adoption, the realities of navigating a system filled with uncertainty and bad actors, and the relief and joy of finally bringing her son, Romero, home. It’s honest, emotional, and full of insight for anyone navigating (or questioning) the adoption process.And because this is Momarchy, we close by naming what we officially do not give a f*ck about in 2026, from toddler meltdowns to beauty standards, because sometimes survival means letting things go.We Discuss:(0:00) - Introduction(0:33) - Pop Culture Update(15:41) - Political Updates - Venezuela(22:20) - Political Updates - Minnesota ICE Incident(30:48) - Journey to Motherhood(46:54) - Parenthood Advice(50:05) - Issues That Matter as a Parent(52:22) - DGAF 2026 Edition(56:59) - ClosingLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it look like when two 90s kids become parents in a world that never logs off?In this episode, we talk through a chaotic start to 2026, one marked by illness, holiday health scares, ER visits, and the reality of keeping life (and a podcast) moving when modern motherhood doesn’t slow down.We take a nostalgic detour back to the 90s, revisiting childhood memories shaped by landlines, dial-up internet, and growing up offline. As trends resurface and nostalgia creeps in, we reflect on why that era feels especially comforting now and how different it is to raise kids in a technology-driven world where constant connection is the default.Alongside the personal, we touch on the broader cultural and political moments shaping family life today, from the background hum of the news cycle to the rising costs and pressures parents are navigating. These conversations sit alongside everyday questions about screen time, phones, and how much access kids really need to the digital world.We close by talking through how we’re navigating this moment as parents, what we’re paying attention to, what we’re still figuring out, and how we’re trying to raise kids who are thoughtful, curious, and kind in a world that feels anything but simple.Learn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever welcome a new year and immediately think, “Oh… we’re still doing this?”In our first episode of 2026, we ring in the new year by reflecting on what last year taught us, what we’re leaving behind, and what we’re carrying forward, starting with stronger boundaries, better mental health habits, and a renewed commitment to staying engaged (without completely losing our minds).We dig into the political reality of the year ahead, from the high-stakes midterm elections to why the January 6th insurrection still matters, not as a distant memory, but as a moment with lasting consequences for the future our kids are inheriting. We walk through what happened, what followed, and why forgetting isn’t an option.Zooming out, we talk about community organizing, our fears and hopes for democracy, and the unique role parents play in shaping political awareness at home even when the coffee is cold and the to-do list is endless.And in true Momarchy fashion, we land on a New Year’s resolution that actually counts: show up. Vote. Talk to your kids. Lean on your community. Because raising humans in 2026 means caring about the world they’re growing into.We discuss:(00:00) – Welcome to 2026: Laughing through politics, parenting, and the mess  (04:00) – January 6th: Remembering what really happened at the Capitol  (07:00) – Resolutions we’re leaving behind: anxiety, people-pleasing, and passivity  (13:00) – This wasn’t a protest—it was planned political violence  (16:00) – How January 6th nearly disrupted nuclear command systems  (20:00) – Trump pardoned 1,000+ rioters—many now face new charges  (26:00) – How having kids changes the way we see political violence  (28:30) – Schools, history, and rewriting January 6th in real time  (32:00) – Extremist organizing online: the threat is still very real  (39:00) – You’re not “just a mom” — your voice, vote, and influence matter  Learn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wish you could ask a pediatrician all your questions, the serious ones, the political ones, and the “is this normal or am I losing it?” ones?In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Megan Prior, a pediatrician and mom, to talk about how she found her way into pediatrics and why caring for children has always meant caring for families, too.Dr. Prior shares what it’s really like to balance a demanding medical career with motherhood, and how that experience exposed the fragile support systems so many families rely on. We talk about childcare, paid leave, and why the United States continues to fall behind other developed nations when it comes to supporting parents with the consequences landing hardest on working and low-income families.We also discuss the growing influence of political misinformation in pediatric healthcare, from vaccines to fluoride, and why parents are increasingly asked to navigate talking points instead of science. Dr. Prior explains why staying informed matters, how advocacy can actually make a difference, and why reaching out to legislators is one way parents can help protect children’s health.Dr. Megan Prior is a pediatrician, mother, and advocate for children and families, committed to evidence-based care and building systems that actually support the people they’re meant to serve.We discuss:(00:00) – What Momarchy is all about: calling out the BS in politics & motherhood  (01:40) – "We’re not safe" – Mass shootings, antisemitism, and heartbreaking headlines  (04:00) – The Jewish community’s size, history, and hate crime statistics  (07:00) – Feeling helpless and angry: "It’s okay to be mad"  (10:00) – Healthcare subsidies in danger: what parents need to know  (24:00) – Dr. Megan Prior on why she became a pediatrician  (27:00) – The broken U.S. childcare system: real stories from real families  (36:00) – $50K/year for childcare? "Make that make sense"  (44:00) – RFK’s fake solutions to real parenting problems  (55:00) – Action steps: What parents can do heading into 2026 Learn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it look like when two busy moms hit the end of the year and finally take a breath? In this holiday episode, we reflect on the beautiful chaos of mid-December, the kind that sneaks up quickly and somehow feels both magical and exhausting. As the year rushes to a close, we revisit the traditions that anchor us: Christmas movie marathons, Hanukkah celebrations, and the annual antics of the Elf on the Shelf that leave parents wondering why they ever started in the first place.We also take a candid look at the cultural and political moments that shaped the year, including Trump’s controversial pardons and the kind of headlines that made us pause, laugh, or say, “Are you kidding me?” These reflections sit alongside the smaller, more personal dilemmas of the season like navigating thoughtful gift-giving for teachers and nannies, reminding us how ordinary and extraordinary this time of year can be.As we look back on our very first year of podcasting, we share the gratitude that has carried us: for the listeners who showed up, the sponsors who believed in us, and the guests who helped shape conversations we’re proud of. We also open up about what’s ahead, offering a glimpse into where the show is headed next.This year is both a celebration and a chance to acknowledge the wins and WTFs, while sending you into the holidays with warmth, humor, and our heartfelt thanks.We discuss:00:00 – Welcome to Momarchy: Calling out BS in politics and motherhood04:00 – ChatGPT makeup advice & makeshift podcast studios07:15 – Trump tells steelworkers to “buy fewer gifts” – seriously?!08:30 – Erika Kirk compares husbands to the government13:30 – Trump pardons 1,500+ Jan 6 rioters and drug traffickers17:00 – Launching a business + this podcast = real startup life23:00 – WTF Kid Moment: Pooping on a book (yes, really)28:30 – Ask a Millennial Mom: Do we *really* need to give 12 teacher gifts?!41:00 – Elf on the Shelf: Meet “Neil” and his magical guilt trips51:00 – De-stress your holiday: Zoo lights and hot chocolate work just fineLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wish parenting came with a Hallmark-style guarantee? Ninety minutes, one conflict, a cozy ending? Same.In this episode, we welcome our first-ever family guests and our first dads on the podcast to share their perspective on modern parenting: Luke Macfarlane and Hig Roberts.We dive into everything from their journey to fatherhood, to balancing high-profile careers with nap schedules, to the real and unfiltered experience of raising a child. We also zoom out to the bigger conversations: how society views same sex families, the shifting political landscape around parenting rights, and what it truly means to show up for your child when the world feels unpredictable.And in true Momarchy fashion, we land where it matters most: the beauty, the mess, the questions, and the love that make modern parenting work… whether your life looks like a Hallmark movie or absolutely does not.We discuss:00:00 – Welcome to Momarchy + show mission05:00 – Launching the Momarchy YouTube channel07:20 – Costco sues over tariffs (politics update)10:40 – Katie Miller controversy: “waffles vs spaghetti”16:50 – Introducing guests Luke & Higgs21:00 – Rapid fire: parenting & relationship dynamics33:00 – Becoming dads as a gay couple47:30 – NICU discrimination story01:06:30 – Hallmark movies vs real-life parenting01:19:40 – Family rights, hope, and closing reflectionsLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her year old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to find people to talk to about Traitors.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comYouTube: @momarchySubstack: @momarchyInstagram: @momarchypodcastTikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever looked at the news, looked at your kid's half-eaten snack plate, and wondered if the entire country is gaslighting you at the same time?In this episode, we talk about the Epstein files, the political circus surrounding them, and why so many of us are feeling politically homeless as 2025 drags itself to the finish line. Nothing about this season feels calm, and pretending otherwise is its own kind of delusion.We get into power, accountability, the way both parties talk down to parents, and how moms end up carrying the emotional load of a political system that refuses to just say the quiet part out loud. We also bring back our DGAF Mom Moment with the Hot or Not Edition, because sometimes laughing at the chaos is the only thing keeping us upright.If you are tired, confused, or one performative political lecture away from snapping, grab your hot drink and tune in.We Discuss:(04:05) The boycott drama and why parents are over the judgment(12:16) The Epstein files explained without the noise(18:34) Trump's pivot and the political spin around the release(27:51) Why so many of us feel politically homeless in 2025(33:22) How exhaustion fuels gaslighting and misinformation(41:00) The gap between what parents need and what politics delivers(46:45) How to stay engaged without burning out(51:18) Our DGAF Mom Moment: Hot or Not editionLearn more about:Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver.Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches.Website: momarchypodcast.comSubstack: https://substack.com/@momarchyInstagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypodcastEmail: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a mother realizes that staying on the sidelines is no longer an option? For Shannon Watts, that moment came after the Sandy Hook tragedy, when the fear every parent carries turned into a determination she could not ignore. In this episode, we look at how Moms Demand Action began with one Facebook post and grew into the largest women's volunteer organization in the country. Shannon shares why mothers so often become the steady force behind major social movements and what she has learned from watching everyday women transform concern into influence. We also explore the emotional reality of raising kids in a country where safety cannot be taken for granted. Shannon talks about the guilt and pressure that often follow women who choose to speak up, and how activism can feel grounding when it offers community instead of isolation. She also shares insights from her new book about how women can identify what drives them and take meaningful steps toward the life they want. Shannon Watts is a speaker, author, and the Founder of Moms Demand Action. She has been named a Time Magazine 100 Most Influential People, a Forbes 50 Over 50 Changemaker, and a Glamour Woman of the Year. She is the author of Fight Like a Mother and Fired Up, a New York Times and USA Today bestseller about helping women break limitations and ignite what comes next. We Discuss: (06:14) How the Sandy Hook tragedy pushed Shannon into action (08:40) Why mothers often end up leading major movements (11:56) Activism as grounding instead of burnout (13:54) Navigating polarization and finding real common ground (17:42) Why guilt shows up when women raise their voices (24:09) The gap between "pro-life" rhetoric and gun safety (29:26) How women use values, abilities, and desires to define their path (34:17) Supporting teens who fear going to school Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: @momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypodcast Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Shannon Watts: Instagram: @shannonrwatts X: @shannonrwatts Website: momsdemandaction.org Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like the holidays are stressful enough without your uncle turning Thanksgiving into a cable news audition? Same. In this episode, we're breaking down how to survive political conversations at the holiday table without ruining the pie or your sanity. From setting expectations before you walk in the door to gracefully exiting bad-faith debates, we're giving you the tools to make it through the season with your peace intact. We're also bringing back Pardon My Politics: Thanksgiving Edition. JD Vance and Erica Kirk's viral hug, the New York Times' messy headline, Trump ignoring a guest fainting in the Oval Office, and the Colorado organizers who quietly flipped their entire city council. To lighten things up, we dive into some truly unhinged White House Thanksgiving history. JFK skipped the turkey, Nixon served cottage cheese with ketchup, Obama baked sweet potato pie, and Trump… well, he brought out the Big Macs. We also imagine what Thanksgiving would look like with a woman in the Oval Office. And in Ask a Millennial Mom, we talk teaching gratitude when your family can't agree on basic facts, choosing between the parade, football or the dog show, and the "I'm trying, but I'm a parent" dishes that always come through. Yes, the Whole Foods hot bar and boxed stuffing absolutely count. Tune in. We Discuss: (00:20) The "Hot Louvre Thieves" and the strange glamorizing of viral criminals (08:56) Why holiday family gatherings turn into unexpected political minefields (14:02) How to exit heated conversations without drama or guilt (15:45) The invisible mental load moms carry during the holiday season (24:29) Pardon My Politics: viral hugs, bad headlines, fainting scandals and big wins (35:34) The wildest and weirdest Thanksgiving traditions from the White House (43:53) Ask a Millennial Mom: teaching gratitude, handling family tension and easy mom dishes Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypodcast Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Could you imagine that a bakery job at 15 would shape the way someone leads a nation? In this episode, we sit down with Secretary Deb Haaland, former Secretary of the Interior and now candidate for governor of New Mexico. Deb shares how her early lessons in hard work and humility shaped her belief that leadership begins with empathy and discipline, not power. We talk about how running became her way to think and heal, why "Be Fierce" isn't just a campaign slogan, and how motherhood has grounded her leadership in compassion and courage. We also discuss the connection between public service and personal values, and what it really takes to build a future where families and the planet can thrive together. Deb Haaland is the 54th Secretary of the Interior, a proud member of Laguna Pueblo, and she is now running for governor of New Mexico. She's dedicated to protecting public lands, empowering communities, and ensuring future generations inherit a world worth caring for. We Discuss: (00:01): Politics, Parenting, and Pop Culture (15:24): Politics with Purpose: Meet Secretary Deb Haaland (17:00): From Bakery to Ballots (20:21): How Running Became Her Form of Meditation (22:56): When Women Win, Everyone Benefits (26:56): What "Be Fierce" Really Means (30:44): Why Empathy Is Her Strongest Leadership Tool (36:33): How We Protect the Land We Love (and Why It Matters) (44:37): The Power of Kitchen Table Politics (52:30): How to Teach the Next Generation to Care for the Planet Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypodcast Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Secretary Deb Haaland: Instagram: @secdebhaaland X: @SecDebHaaland Facebook: @SecretaryDebHaaland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like politics makes as little sense as parenting a toddler? Same. In this episode, we're launching our first-ever Momarchy Fantasy Draft: Make It Make Sense Edition, where we each pick the wildest political stories of the week and attempt the impossible: explaining them like rational adults. (Spoiler: we fail, but it's fun.) Between Trump's latest antics, the East Wing demolition, and the never-ending government shutdown, we're breaking it all down with plenty of laughter and side stories about food poisoning, hand-foot-mouth disease, and why Target is basically church for moms. Because when democracy feels like a toddler on Halloween candy, sometimes all you can do is pour a ginger ale (or wine) and laugh through the madness. We Discuss: (00:01) Food poisoning, packing chaos, and recording from home (03:51) Sick kids, vaccine shortages, and the annual preschool panic (08:12) The first-ever Momarchy Draft: making political nonsense make sense (kind of) (12:25) Target runs, scheduling fun, and why "self-care" looks different for moms (18:03) The myth of balance and the art of stop pretending we can do it all (24:51) He's not babysitting, he's parenting (33:02) The AI poop video, the yelling leak and more: the week's wildest headlines (51:30) Sweaty gym clothes, diaper bags, and the ultimate Momarchy Challenge Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you launch your campaign for Congress the same week you find out you're pregnant? In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Vedernikova Khanna (a first-time candidate, communications strategist, and soon-to-be mom), to talk about what it really looks like to chase big political dreams while growing a human. Lisa shares how her mother's journey from Soviet Russia shaped her understanding of the American dream, why lived experience matters in policymaking, and what she's learned about resilience on the campaign trail. We talk about pregnancy, power, and the policies that actually support families: from paid leave to childcare to maternal healthcare in rural communities. We also discuss what it means to redefine "family values" in today's political climate, why resting is a luxury most moms can't afford, and the importance of electing more mothers to Congress. Lisa Vedernikova Khanna is running for Congress in Virginia and previously worked with the New York Times and the Democratic National Committee. She's passionate about building a government that truly reflects and supports working families. We Discuss: (00:01) Love Is Blind, Denver edition: why love is definitely not blind in Colorado (07:34) 100,000 downloads: from texting our moms for listens to thousands tuning in every week (10:35) How Momarchy started (17:15) Recording from our kitchens, hiding from toddlers, and still trying to sound confident (20:05) Keeping hope alive when politics feels like a dumpster fire (23:29) Cold DMs, lucky yeses, and the moment people actually started reaching out (25:24) Why Momarchy isn't our full-time job (yet)… and yes, we are paying to do this (30:04) Campaigning and morning sickness: when "leading and lactating" become the same conversation (31:50) Meet Lisa Vedernikova-Khanna: running for Congress while pregnant, and redefining what power looks like (34:51) The policies she's fighting for and why lived experience belongs in Congress (44:24) The "how will you do both?" question, the myth of pro-family politics, and the reality of doing it anyway (55:15) Her message to moms everywhere Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Lisa Vedernikova-Khanna: Website: www.lvk.vote Instagram: @lisaforvirginia Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder why Halloween and election season overlap every single year? Spoiler alert: it's not a coincidence, and both involve way too much door-knocking and people losing their minds. In this spooky special episode of Momarchy, we're diving into the intersection of Halloween, motherhood, and the original cancel culture: the Salem Witch Trials. Because nothing says "happy Halloween" quite like realizing that being accused of witchcraft in 1692 was basically what happens now when you have an opinion on the internet. We're talking about the pressure to create Pinterest-perfect Halloween memories, how political campaigns have ruined this holiday for anyone who's ever worked on a race, and why the Salem Witch Trials were just mass gaslighting with deadly consequences. Plus, Love is Blind drama, king-size candy bars, and why being called a witch really just meant you were a woman who refused to stay quiet. We Discuss: 00:24 - Election Day reminder: November 4th is one week away 01:43 - Love is Blind finale predictions and the Nick/Annie breakup we all saw coming 02:07 - Joe and Madison's cringy Mexico pool party moment that made us all uncomfortable 04:12 - Halloween as a mom: First-timer nerves vs. fourth Halloween wisdom 08:24 - Family themed costumes: Worth the effort or just added pressure? 17:36 - That time Tanya threw up from exhaustion (not drinking) on Halloween 2016 in Colorado Springs 22:01 - Does social media make Halloween worse? The crafty mom pressure is real (or is it?) 27:24 - The Salem Witch Trials deep dive begins: The OG gaslighting campaign 34:02 - How the Salem Witch Trials mirror Democratic Party infighting today 36:09 - The opposite of hate is indifference: When fear keeps people silent 37:21 - It only takes ONE person in power to start a witch hunt (literally) 38:34 - JD Vance, toxic churches, and "boys will be boys" responses to racism 45:52 - Being a witch just means being too powerful for your time Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to rebuild a political party that's lost its way? In this raw and unfiltered episode of Momarchy, we sit down with Amanda Litman, whose organization Run for Something has recruited thousands of young people to run for local office. We dive into the backlash Amanda faced after posting about vaccinating her daughter, what the Make America Healthy Again movement is really about, and why the Democratic Party's resistance to generational change is costing us elections. We also discuss "responsible authenticity" and why being yourself in politics doesn't mean saying everything you think. Amanda Litman is the founder and president of Run for Something, author of "When We're in Charge," and a proud mom of two who lives in Brooklyn. She's a former Hillary Clinton campaign staffer who decided the best way to fight back after 2016 was to recruit the next generation of leaders. We Discuss: 02:32 - Taylor Swift's new album: Our favorite songs and guilty pleasures 06:28 - Pardon My Politics: The unfiltered segment begins 06:41 - The vaccine post that went viral: Death threats, CPS reports, and millions of views 10:16 - Breaking down the Make America Healthy Again movement and its dangers 14:17 - Why young moms are particularly vulnerable to health misinformation 18:35 - The power of economic boycotts and why they brought Kimmel back 19:10 - Responsible authenticity in leadership: Being your best self, not your real self 21:34 - Why American politics refuses to pass the torch to younger leaders 27:13 - Navigating anti-Semitism and safety concerns within the Democratic Party 38:10 - How to run for office when you feel disillusioned with your own party 39:17 - Resources for moms who want to run: Free trainings, asynchronous learning, and support 44:20 - DGAF Mom Version: The one thing Amanda doesn't give a fuck about Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Amanda Litman: Website: https://www.amandalitman.com/ Instagram: @amandalitm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever feel like your Instagram feed is personally attacking your wallet with "must-have" mom products while your toddler is perfectly content playing with a cardboard box? Welcome to the wonderful world of parenting product hype, where marketing genius meets mom guilt and your bank account cries in the corner. In this episode of Momarchy, we're breaking down the viral trends that promise to revolutionize your mom life (spoiler: most won't). From $600 air styling tools to collectible creatures that look like they crawled out of a nightmare, we're calling BS on what's worth your precious time, energy, and money. Plus, we share the unfiltered truth about mom friendships, postpartum bodies, and why we're all just winging it while covered in someone else's bodily fluids. We Discuss: 04:09 - Lululemon belt bags: The millennial mom fanny pack we're not ashamed to love 09:05 - The Hatch sound machine WiFi nightmare (just give us white noise!) 10:43 - Peloton: From pandemic purchase to actual lifesaver for garage workouts 12:56 - HelloFresh vs. Little Spoon: When meal kits save your sanity 16:03 - WTF are Labubu figures and why are they haunting our Instagram feeds? 17:36 - Toddler towers: The "beep beep" that changed everything 21:38 - Rapid fire confessions: From snot-wiping to accidental f-bombs 30:16 - Why "sleeping in" until 8am is now considered a luxury vacation 35:10 - "Vacations" that require spreadsheets and still end in tears 37:20 - Mom friendships: When you know their kid's poop schedule but not their last name 42:26 - Holiday magic (and why Halloween witches might traumatize your baby) 45:28 - The postpartum body plot twist that hit like a freight train Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to hold onto hope and humanity during the darkest of times? In this deeply moving episode of Momarchy, we sit down with Liz Hirsh Naftali, whose family was forever changed on October 7th when her great-niece Abigail, just three years old, was taken hostage after witnessing her parents' murder. We dive into how Liz spent 51 days fighting to bring Abigail home, and now continues to advocate for all hostages still in captivity. We also discuss the practical ways any parent can apply her approach to having better conversations across differences and finding hope during overwhelming times. Liz Hirsh Naftali is the creator of the Capital Coffee Connection podcast, a commercial real estate entrepreneur, and author of "Saving Abigail." She's worked with leaders across the political spectrum, from progressive Democrats to conservative Republicans, proving that our shared humanity is stronger than our political differences. We Discuss: 00:03 - Rapid fire questions: from New York walks to Broadway pump-up music 06:17 - What "home" means in motherhood and why that matters now 10:36 - The crisis in the Middle East: a brief but essential context 16:27 - Living through a family's nightmare: when Abigail was taken 21:16 - How motherhood becomes a superpower during crisis 28:52 - Building unlikely alliances: working with politicians you disagree with 33:12 - Why we have to move beyond "choosing sides" 37:44 - Teaching resilience: how Abigail is thriving in first grade 42:30 - The role of women and mothers in times of crisis 48:12 - Finding what connects us instead of what divides us 51:38 - Practical advice: how to have better conversations with people you disagree with 54:43 - What keeps you showing up when everything feels hopeless 55:43 - The power of local action and everyday kindness Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Liz Hirsh Naftali: Website: https://www.lizhirshnaftali.com/about-liz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when federal policy changes land squarely on the doorstep of local government? In this episode of Momarchy, we sit down with Julie Duran-Mullica, Adams County Commissioner and mom of three, to break down the recent Medicaid changes that are about to impact millions of families across the country. We explore what these policy shifts actually mean in plain English, why your county commissioner might be more important than you think, and how extreme politics at every level is making it harder to have basic conversations about healthcare. Julie also explains why reaching out to your local officials really does make a difference. Julie Duran-Mullica has spent years in public health and local leadership as an Adams County Commissioner. She's a fierce advocate for affordable housing, childcare, and community safety who believes in the power of regional partnerships and storytelling to drive policy change. We Discuss: 00:59 - Rapid fire questions: from bookworm kid to Taylor Swift campaign songs 07:38 - What a county commissioner actually does (and why it matters) 11:35 - Breaking down the Medicaid changes in mom-speak 14:30 - New work requirements and what they mean for families 16:47 - How these changes affect pregnant women and new moms 18:40 - What families should do right now to prepare 20:35 - How extreme politics led us to cutting healthcare for millions 23:22 - Your first step to getting politically involved (hint: it starts with coffee) 28:46 - Success stories of community members creating real change 33:11 - Ask a Millennial Mom: Hair rules, screen time balance, and TikTok parenting hacks 45:13 - Finding positivity and ways to help in your own community Learn more about: Tanya Nathan is a political campaign and communications strategist with over a decade of experience in progressive campaigns and advocacy. Currently a Principal at a nationally-based grasstops consulting firm, she's a Denver native living with her 8-month-old daughter, husband, and their rescue pets. Her hobbies include crosswords, mezcal tasting, and trying to sleuth out who's going to be on Love is Blind Denver. Sarah Andrews is a political strategist living in rural Colorado with her husband and two young kids. When she's not managing campaigns or chasing toddlers, she's passionate about women's rights, childcare policy, and creating space for honest political conversations that don't end in shouting matches. Website: momarchypodcast.com Substack: https://substack.com/@momarchy Instagram: @themomarchypodcast TikTok: @momarchypod Email: momarchypodcast@gmail.com Find more from Julie Duran Mullica: Website: https://www.juliemullica.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.