Embracing the Messy Middle

SummaryIn this episode, Kate and Brooke explore various themes surrounding parenting, self-care, and family dynamics. They discuss the challenges of managing kids' expectations for Halloween costumes, the importance of self-care for parents, and the balancing act of family life. The conversation also touches on the significance of anniversaries, the joys of reading, and the impact of social media on our perception of news. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of authenticity in relationships and the need to embrace the messy moments of life.Follow us on Instagram: @EmbracingTheMessyMiddle

SummaryIn this conversation, Kate and Brooke explore the nuances of parenting, the significance of family dynamics, and the transition back to school. They discuss the role of grandparents, the challenges of managing activities, and the excitement surrounding sports coaching. The conversation also touches on cultural phenomena like Taylor Swift and the importance of support systems in navigating life's changes. With humor and relatability, they reflect on their experiences and the joys and challenges of family life.Follow on Instagram: @EmbracingTheMessyMiddle

Join Brooke and Kate as they navigate the unpredictable chaos of summer. From the unexpected challenges of swim meets to the overwhelming feeling of being overcommitted, they share candid insights and humorous anecdotes about embracing the messy middle of the season.

In this conversation, Kate and Brooke explore themes of personal style, the excitement and anxiety surrounding concerts, the challenges of managing children's activities, and the importance of finding the right books to read. They also share their experiences with loss, particularly the passing of a beloved pet, and discuss how to cope with such changes while moving forward in life.Follow on Instagram: @EmbracingTheMessyMiddle

Join Kate and Brooke as they return from their hiatus, diving into the whirlwind of life updates, summer plans, and personal growth. From skincare routines to the joys of hosting, they share candid moments and insights on navigating the chaos of everyday life.Highlights:-The reality of podcasting breaks and listener habits -Kate's journey with Invisalign and skincare -The art of hosting and keeping a welcoming home -Embracing personal growth and self-care#PodcastLife #SummerVibes #PersonalGrowth #KateAndBrooke #EmbracingTheMessyMiddle #ETMM #Ep16Follow us on Instagram: @EmbracingTheMessyMiddle

SummaryIn this week's conversation, Kate and Brooke explore their journey of podcasting, addressing self-doubt, the importance of validation, and the mental health challenges many face. They discuss the significance of consistency in their podcasting efforts, the balance between openness and privacy, and the need to celebrate everyday wins. The conversation also touches on self-care routines, particularly skincare, as they navigate the road to 40 and the changes that come with it. As summer approaches, they reflect on their plans for a low-key season, the challenges of overcommitment, and the importance of identifying unique gifts. Ultimately, they invite listeners to join them in a summer challenge focused on filling their cups with joy and fulfillment.Follow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

SummaryIn this episode of 'Embracing the Messy Middle', hosts Kate and Brooke discuss the ups and downs of motherhood, self-care rituals, and the chaos of May, which is filled with teacher appreciation events and Mother's Day celebrations. They explore the emotional pendulum that comes with parenting, the importance of communication in relationships, and the need for self-celebration amidst the busyness of life. The conversation is light-hearted yet reflective, touching on the challenges and joys of being a mother while navigating personal growth and family dynamics.Follow us on Insta: @embracingthemessymiddle

SummaryIn this conversation, Kate and Brooke explore various themes including content strategy for their business, the challenges of parenting, reflections on aging, and the complexities of Mother's Day expectations. They discuss the balance between entertainment and education in their content, share personal anecdotes about parenting struggles, and reflect on their own growth and experiences as they navigate motherhood. The conversation culminates in a discussion about finding joy amidst the chaos of family life and the importance of self-awareness in managing expectations. In this engaging conversation, Kate and Brooke explore the complexities of finding joy in everyday life, the importance of self-reflection, and the power of gratitude. They discuss the balance between seeking joy and accepting the present, emphasizing that joy can be found in small moments rather than grand achievements. The conversation also touches on the significance of perspective and the choices we make daily to cultivate positivity. As they wrap up, they introduce a potential guest who will share insights on capturing life's stories.Follow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

SummaryIn this episode, Kate and Brooke discuss their new podcast studio setup, the challenges of remote work, and their thoughts on Easter. They share experiences from 'Take Your Child to Work Day', navigate the complexities of parenting while working, and reflect on personal health journeys including Invisalign and Coca-Cola addiction. The conversation also touches on their silent retreat experience and the impact of reading on anxiety levels.Follow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

SummaryIn this conversation, Brooke and Kate discuss their experiences during spring break, the challenges of balancing personal time with family responsibilities, and the joys of creating lasting memories with their children. They delve into the allure of fairy romance novels, the importance of setting expectations for family vacations, and the significance of being present during special moments. The discussion highlights the emotional complexities of motherhood and the need for self-care amidst the chaos of parenting.Follow on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

In this engaging conversation, Kate and Brooke explore the pressures of beauty standards, the challenges of parenting, and the joy of celebrations. They discuss the impact of aging and societal expectations on self-image, the stress of planning events for children, and the importance of organization in managing busy lives. The duo also shares humorous anecdotes about their families and the quest for fun, particularly at places like Great Wolf Lodge. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the significance of storytelling and listening in their interactions. In this engaging conversation, Kate and Brooke discuss their fitness journeys, the importance of self-care, the latest fashion trends, and creative entertaining ideas. They share personal anecdotes about workouts, health priorities, and the challenges of maintaining motivation. The duo also explores quirky fashion trends and innovative ways to entertain guests, emphasizing the joy of creativity in everyday life. 00:00 The Art of Effortless Beauty03:05 Navigating Aging and Beauty Standards05:51 The Pressure of Celebrations08:57 Expectations and Stress in Parenting11:59 Finding Joy in Celebrations15:01 The Importance of Organization17:58 The Quest for Fun at Great Wolf Lodge20:57 The Balance of Storytelling and Listening27:19 Fitness Journey and Immediate Results32:29 Prioritizing Self-Care and Health36:14 Fashion Trends and Personal Style43:27 Creative Entertaining Ideas Follow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

In this engaging conversation, Brooke and Kate discuss their podcast journey, expressing gratitude for their listeners and sharing humorous anecdotes about technical challenges. They delve into the dynamics of work-life balance, family interactions during absences, and the importance of feedback. The discussion also touches on communication styles and the satisfaction derived from their careers, highlighting personal growth and the support of their families. In this engaging conversation, Brooke and Kate explore the complexities of career transitions, the challenges of balancing motherhood and work, and the importance of understanding women's health. They share personal anecdotes and insights on finding fulfillment in life and work, while also emphasizing the need for self-care and grace during times of change. The discussion highlights the significance of embracing change, gathering information about personal preferences, and the unique challenges women face in their careers and health. 00:00 Introduction and Gratitude for Listeners03:00 Technical Challenges and Podcast Growth05:59 Work-Life Balance and Family Dynamics08:59 Feedback and Self-Perception11:59 Expressive Communication Styles15:00 Survival Mode: Family Dynamics When Away18:04 Career Satisfaction and Personal Growth22:11 Navigating Career Transitions26:07 Embracing Change and Finding Fulfillment30:41 The Balancing Act of Parenthood and Career34:34 Understanding Women's Health and Wellness39:10 Finding Joy in Everyday Conversations Follow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

Summary In this conversation, Brooke and Kate discusses the chaoticyet relatable aspects of parenting, including the stress of school events likecolor day, the challenges of balancing personal growth with familyresponsibilities, and the importance of communication and emotional awarenessin relationships. The discussion also touches on the impact of social media,food preferences, and the shared experiences of parenting, highlighting themessy middle of raising children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Color Day Chaos03:14 Navigating Parenting Challenges05:55 The Messy Middle of Parenting08:49 Personal Growth and Sticky Notes12:09 Social Media and Self-Improvement15:09 Food Preferences and Parenting17:56 Grocery Store Adventures21:05 Reality Check and Dance Class Dynamics23:53 Relationships and Communication27:05 Emotional Awareness and Self-Care30:00 Parallel Lives and Parenting Realities Follow us on Instagram: @EmbracingTheMessyMiddle

In this conversation, Kate and Brooke discuss their recent experiences with motivation, business updates, and the challenges of parenting. They explore the importance of setting boundaries, the role of social media in their lives, and the dynamics of supporting children through various activities. The conversation also touches on self-care, mental health awareness, and the significance of community engagement. With humor and relatability, they share insights on navigating life's ups and downs while encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being and personal growth.00:00 Introduction 03:18 Business Updates and Motivation Surge06:27 Navigating Motivation and Discipline09:20 Social Media Detox and Mental Health12:13 The Balance of Motivation and Comparison15:10 Parenting Challenges and Support18:13 Conclusion and Reflections on Growth24:04 Parenting Lessons from the Little Ones30:08 Balancing Extracurricular Activities35:54 The Importance of Commitment and Accountability41:04 Finding Joy in Personal Growth45:53 Community Engagement and Future PlansFollow us on Instagram: @embracingthemessymiddle

In this episode, Brooke & Kate discuss their recent night out, reflecting on how it unexpectedly improved their mood and energy levels. They share stories of navigating parenting challenges, from dealing with kids' activities to managing their evolving dietary needs. The episode also includes personal anecdotes about making time for fun amidst busy schedules, balancing self-care with responsibilities, and humorous takes on surviving kids' demands. The conversation touches on their personal goals, such as adopting healthier habits (or trying to) and having more intentional fun. They end with light-hearted banter about everyday achievements and setting realistic expectations.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:29 Weekend Recap: Night Out01:37 Planning and Spontaneity03:37 Parenting Challenges and Fun09:25 Seasonal Changes and Energy11:19 Economic Observations17:36 Family Stories and Reflections25:24 Avoiding Credit Card Fees25:45 Boycotting Target27:00 Feeling Accomplished27:32 Baking a Birthday Cake29:24 Grocery Store Triumphs29:49 Personal Development Insights33:23 Hair Care Routines41:40 Red Light Therapy46:34 Healthy Eating Choices47:47 Concluding Thoughts

In this lively episode, the hosts celebrate making it through the week and dive into a variety of topics, including personal stories about a recent dance mom outing, unexpected illness, and humorous struggles with face washing routines. They also discuss the challenges and decisions in updating their business branding, website, and the importance of authenticity in their professional and personal lives. Additionally, they share light-hearted banter on books, skin care routines, and the joy of finding humor in everyday life. A warm and engaging conversation that offers relatable stories and insights!00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:12 Reflecting on the Week01:09 Dance Mom Weekend Recap05:50 Book Discussions and Recommendations15:21 Dealing with Sickness20:20 Identity Theft Incident21:21 Unexpected Fashion Choices22:19 Hair Hacks and Experiments23:20 Funny Family Moments26:00 Skincare Routines31:19 Entrepreneurial Journey36:35 Balancing Authenticity and Professionalism44:19 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellFollow us on Instagram:  @embracingthemessymiddle

In this episode of Embracing the Messy Middle, Brooke and Kate navigate the chaotic, yet hilarious, world of motherhood. They kick off with Valentine's Day preparations, sharing how differently they've tackled the holiday for their kids. Kate goes all out with decorations and activities, while Brooke opts for a minimalist approach, sparking laughter as they compare their efforts. The conversation turns to Kate's new role as a 'Dance Mom,' detailing her preparations for her daughter Paige’s first dance competition and the unexpected challenges that come with it. They also touch on upcoming events and the continuous juggling act of balancing work, hobbies, and parenting. Join them for a candid, humorous look at the ups and downs of mom life.00:00 Introduction to Embracing the Messy Middle00:23 Catching Up and Valentine's Day Special02:52 Dance Mom Adventures08:15 Mother-Daughter Shopping Spree10:56 The Art of Gathering and Intentional Meetings15:52 School Closures and Winter Blues21:47 Balancing Parenting and Personal Life22:20 Valentine's Day Preparations24:35 Morning Surprises and Reactions26:47 Guilt and Comparisons34:12 Dance Mom Duties37:13 Upcoming Celebrations and Traditions43:46 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellsFollow us on Instagram:  @embracingthemessymiddle

In this episode, the Brooke and Kate discuss their busy schedules and how they manage their overlapping responsibilities and personal projects. They talk about the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal time, especially after periods of absence due to vacations and retreats. The conversation touches on the struggles of January's longer-feeling month, seasonal depression, and the chaos caused by kids at home. They also explore the concept of 'creative constipation' and how it impacts productivity, relating it to their experiences of trying to juggle business projects and personal life. This episode emphasizes the importance of having a support system or 'village,' as well as the joys and trials of parenting and maintaining a household.00:00 Welcome Back! Catching Up After a Break01:11 The Never-Ending Month of January05:03 Parenting Challenges and Sibling Rivalries09:02 Balancing Work and Family Life12:39 The Struggle with Self-Help and Personal Growth19:16 Creative Constipation and Overwhelm20:10 Balancing Work and Personal Life21:51 Domestic Responsibilities and Joy26:04 The Importance of a Support System29:32 Upcoming Plans and Reflections32:13 Podcast Shoutouts and Future Plans37:29 Concluding Thoughts and FarewellLinks to products mentioned:Start Finishing, by Charlie GilkeyFollow us on Instagram:  @embracingthemessymiddle

In this episode of 'Embracing the Messy Middle,' the hosts dive into the challenges of dealing with the cold of January and its impact on daily life. They discuss the high costs of energy bills, the inefficiency of their home heating, and the potential benefits and drawbacks of solar panels. The conversation also covers the emotional impacts of the cold weather, the importance of getting outside for serotonin, and reflecting on college days. They explore the stress associated with planning summer camps in January and the frustration that comes with managing the mental load of organizing family schedules. The hosts reflect on the importance of community support, sharing personal anecdotes about asking for help and the comfort it brings. The episode concludes with a discussion on embracing life’s messiness, the significance of finding joy in everyday moments, and intentions for self-improvement and fun in the coming years.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:24 Winter Woes and Home Heating05:18 Nostalgia and College Memories12:01 Parenting Challenges and Daily Life24:58 Reflecting on Parenting Challenges25:44 Empathy and Support Among Friends26:47 Teenage Communication and Humor28:00 Balancing Responsibilities and Emotions34:23 The Importance of Asking for Help38:55 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments43:27 Embracing Vulnerability and Community44:34 Looking Forward to the Future52:20 Wrapping Up and Future PlansFollow us on Instagram:  @embracingthemessymiddle

In this debut episode of 'Embracing the Messy Middle,' Brooke and Kate, two moms, navigate the unpredictable journey of motherhood. They discuss the everyday hilariously chaotic and meaningful moments, talk about managing life with kids, and delve into the nuances of balancing work and personal life. The duo shares anecdotes about beauty hacks, the reality of morning routines, and entertaining differences in their personalities. They touch upon emotional triggers, favorite meals, and the dynamics of corporate versus entrepreneurial lifestyles. An engaging blend of laughter and sincerity, Brooke and Kate's conversation promises to resonate with listeners navigating their own 'messy middle.'00:00 Welcome to Embracing the Messy Middle00:30 Getting Started and Guest Experience00:46 Hair and Beauty Hacks02:56 Sleep and Beauty Routines07:39 College Memories and Chemistry Class12:39 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Intros20:47 Buttercup Banter21:07 Shirts and Shopify21:23 Parental Concerns21:59 Job Satisfaction22:38 School Memories23:01 Handwriting Woes24:20 Entrepreneurial Spirit25:39 Podcast Reflections35:43 Emotional Rollercoaster40:09 Weekly Wrap-UpLinks to product mentions:Kitsch Heatless Curlers Follow us on Instagram:  @embracingthemessymiddle