The Mom Hour

The holidays are full of fun traditions—holiday photos, baking cookies, and matching PJs—but what happens when reality doesn’t live up to our expectations? Jayme and Kia are here to talk about how to embrace the mess and the madness instead of stressing over it. We explore how to shift our mindset, let go of perfection, and find joy in the imperfect moments with our kids and families this season. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday expectations, this episode is for you! Enjoy!Meagan and Sarah have passed the mic over to our team this holiday break. Enjoy the fantastic, all-new podcast episodes they’ve prepared for you, and we’ll talk to you mid-January!HELPFUL LINKS:Returning To Work After Staying Home With Kids: Episode 472 is an episode from the archives featuring both Jayme and KiaJayme wrote the blog post Baking With Kids This Holiday Season: A Strategy For The Hesitant MomEpisodes From The Archives on Managing Expectations:BONUS: Pressure, Perfection, And Comparison During The Holidays [Classic Replay]Letting Go of Perfect-Holiday-Mom Pressure (For Real This Time): Episode 290Sane & Satisfying Holiday Entertaining: Episode 130OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we’re sharing an episode of another podcast we think you’ll love: Let’s Begin with Jenna Arnold. If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by the complexity of parenting while maintaining your own sense of self, we hope you’ll check out this show!Hosted by activist, author, and mother, Jenna Arnold, in partnership with the early learning experts at Begin, each episode provides a fresh perspective on the parenting and child development topics keeping us up at night–– like parental mental health, fostering resilience, and ensuring our kids are capable, confident, and curious learners.Hear from the creators of Sesame Street, actress Kristen Bell, licensed therapist Kier Gaines, and more as they provide reassurance and guidance–– unpacking their parenting insecurities along the way. And at the end of each episode you’ll hear expert insight from Dr. Jody LeVos, Begin’s Chief Learning Officer, to help reframe growth and achievement in the classroom and beyond.Listen to Let’s Begin with Jenna Arnold on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcastsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We have bright spots of joy to share today! From apparel to décor, books to beverages, and an extremely festive toilet, Meagan and Sarah share what’s making us happy this holiday season. We’re on break for the next four weeks while the team takes over the mic, so come ring out 2024 with us in silly, festive, more-than-mom fashion. Happy Holidays!Want to see the reindeer toilet, the advent candles, the Christmas tree brooch, and the Santa ball cap? Head over to our website, where we've included visuals for much of what we talked about in this episode!HELPFUL LINKS:Sarah’s Hanna Andersson OnesieLast week’s episode was mentioned in this one: Holding On & Letting Go For The Holidays: Episode 494Meagan’s podcast The Tea’s Made on December 15 is with a blogger Well Read Tart who does mashups of books and food.Meagan’s reading Christmas-specific-cozy-lit these days by Jenny Colgen.Cookbooks Sarah Mentioned (all are affiliate links):The Pioneer Woman A Year Of HolidaysBaking For The HolidaysThe Holiday Cookie BookThe Complete Autumn and Winter CookbookLetters from Father Christmas is a classic Meagan recommends and Sarah likes The Gift of the MagiSarah loves this Jacquie Lawson Advent CalendarCheck out our Playlist: Less Stressful, More Magical Holidays for more episodes on holidays and celebrations.OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From sentimental pieces we've lost to new styles we’re drawn to, today’s episode is all about our changing relationship with accessories. Meagan and Sarah explore everything from the family stories held by a Christmas tree brooch, to how we feel about statement pieces and right-hand rings. We wrap things up with a fun lightning round about our current jewelry mindsets. It’s a mix of reflection, reinvention, and a touch of glam— join us!This is Part 3 of 3 in our ‘Treat Yo Self’ series this fall. Check out Part 1 here and Part 2 here. HELPFUL LINKS:Episodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:More Than Mom: Jewelry!Cozy Winter Style Inspiration: Episode 397BONUS: Six Strategies For A Fall Wardrobe RebootWhat We’re Wearing Lately: Episode 450OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As our kids grow up, holiday traditions start to shift; as they enter adulthood and begin their own lives, the shifts get even bigger and they’re naturally accompanied by all kinds of feelings. Join Meagan and Sarah as we share honest thoughts on how we envision ‘holiday mom life’ evolving over the next few decades. We look back at our own young adult years, attempt to predict which of our kids might bail on Christmas first, and reflect on how we hope to balance family togetherness with acceptance and letting go.HELPFUL LINKS:Similar Episodes From The Archives:Do This Now; Enjoy The Holidays Later: Episode 437Home For The Holidays With Little Kids & Big Kids: Episode 341Acknowledging Holidays Present (Truth Talk About Where We Are This Season): Episode 292Remembering Holidays Past: Episode 291Inconsequential Holiday Gripes: Episode 442Don’t miss our ‘Treat Yo Self’ series:8 Boring (But Powerful) Ways We’re Caring For OurselvesHow To Take Yourself On A Date, And Why It MattersOTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Christmas AGAIN?? Join the Grinch in stubbornly refusing the joys of the season with season 2 of ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast! Broadcasting straight from Whoville, with the help of his producer Cindy and loyal dog Max, Grinch is back to rant against Christmas cheer and roast celebrity guests like chestnuts on an open fire. Starring Saturday Night Live’s James Austin Johnson as Dr. Seuss’ iconic holiday hater! Grab your hot cocoa and cozy slippers to find out if the Grinch’s heart will triple this season — or if he’ll send his guests tumbling back down Mt. Crumpit. For even more cheer, Wondery+ will offer exclusive minisodes where listeners can join Cindy and Max the Dog as they investigate a crazy Christmas mystery. Listen to ‘Tis the Grinch Holiday Podcast with the whole family here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Thanksgiving week here in the U.S., and we're welcoming you around our tables with not one but TWO classic episodes from the archives. Enjoy the double-feature, and we'll talk to you soon!The Life-Changing Magic Of Opting Out (Episode 161)No one mom “does it all”–or so we’re told. But what exactly DON’T we do? In Episode 161 Meagan and Sarah share our experience finding ways to opt out of the little (and sometimes not-so-little) tasks and obligations that aren’t meaningful to us as moms, making room for more of what is.The Life-Changing Magic Of Arbitrary Rules (Episode 173)Why? Because I said so. Has a nice ring to it, right? Even better, though (and more specific): because it’s a rule in our house. In Episode 173 Meagan and Sarah are talking about the beauty and hilarity of arbitrary rules, drawing from our own experience and some genius listener suggestions.HELPFUL LINKS:Episodes from the archives mentioned:Routines, Rituals, and Traditions (Part 1): Episode 128Routines, Rituals, and Traditions (Part 2): Episode 129How To Survive (And Even Enjoy) Playing Board Games: Episode 112Magical Night Visitors (Bunnies, Elves, Fairies, and Jolly Fat Dudes): Episode 96Boon Pulp Silicone FeedersOTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we’re sharing an episode of the podcast “What It’s Like to Be…” from New York Times bestselling business book author Dan Heath.In every episode, Dan interviews someone from a different profession: A cattle rancher, a FBI special agent, a professional Santa Claus. He asks what it’s like to do what they do. What does a couples therapist think when a friend asks for relationship advice? Is a Secret Service Agent supposed to pretend like they’re not there when they’re around the president? What does a hair stylist do when a client asks for a celebrity hairstyle that will never work for them?In the preview you’ll here today, you’ll meet a marine biologist who studies manta rays. You’ll hear how drones have changed her work, what it’s like to get to know individual rays, and why people have such a romantic image of being a “Marine Biologist.” It’s the perfect show to listen to with your kids – it’s family safe but also gives them a preview of different careers – and the kinds of personalities that fit with the work.You can find more episodes of “What It’s Like to Be…” wherever you get your podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Who has time to read these days? Let’s discuss how to keep your love of reading alive, even when it feels like there’s no time to pick up a book. We’ll share a few simple ways to stay connected to our bookish selves (even during the busiest seasons) as well as tips for developing your own sense of self as a reader that doesn’t have to participate in trends and goals that don’t serve you. Grab a cozy drink, settle in, and enjoy!HELPFUL LINKS:Want to support an independent bookshop? Visit Meagan’s family business, Paper Mill Books, via Bookshop.orgWant to buy our book? Click here.Episodes From The Archives About Books:Books & Reading Reflections for 2023: Episode 445More Than Mom: Books Talk! (What & How We’re Reading Lately)Books We’re Loving Lately: Voices 72 With Joanna Martin & Katherine DeVriesRaising Readers & Our Favorite Holiday Books: Episode 186Cultivating A Reading Life: Voices 73 With Amy ClarkMore Than Mom: Podcast Listening & Book Reading Habits (Plus A Few We’re Loving Lately)Blog Posts About Reading and Books:Spring Into Summer Reading (How I Get Ready To Enjoy Great Books All Summer Long)12 Picture Books About Starting SchoolExploring Nature Through Books: 7 Beautiful Nonfiction Nature Book Series For KidsSpring Into Summer Reading (How I Get Ready To Enjoy Great Books All Summer Long)7 Picture Books To Spring Your Family Into Climate ActionHispanic Heritage Month Picture Books For KidsThe Girl Next Door Podcast talks about books often. Check out the latest Fall Reading Roundup episode.Substack is a popular platform where writers can publish articles, newsletters and more!Laura Tremaine’s 20-minute reading timer trickLink up your kindle to your library’s Libby App.Neck Reading Lights help with reading at night.OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Self care sometimes looks a little like tough love – and it’s definitely not always glamorous. Whether it’s appointing that follow-up, making a lifestyle change, or hitting pause for some serious rest, today we’re talking about the ways we’re ‘treating ourselves’ to some actual – if rather boring – midlife lady self care. Join us!This is Part 2 of 3 in our ‘Treat Yo Self’ series this fall. Check out Part 1 here!HELPFUL LINKS:How To Take Yourself On A Date, And Why It Matters is the first episode in this three-part series.Episodes From The Archives Similar To This Episode:(Very Specific!) Self-Care Strategies For Stressful Seasons: Episode 253Self-Care As Self-Preservation: Episode 104Radical Self Care & Cultivating Creativity with Doña Bumgarner: Voices 08Rethinking Instagram: Episode 456Some of Meagan’s favorite Non-Alcoholic BeerHOP WTRPartake BrewingAthletic BrewFULOTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Turkey, traditions and lightning-round fun! In this festive episode, Meagan and Sarah banter through a series of Thanksgiving-themed questions, from favorite dishes to décor and more. We also reflect on how Thanksgiving has evolved for us over the years—sharing stories from childhood, family traditions, and how we make the holiday work for our families today. Join us for laughs, nostalgia, and all things Thanksgiving!HELPFUL LINKSEpisodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:Do This Now; Enjoy The Holidays Later: Episode 437Tricky Family Dynamics: Episode 438Holiday Hills To Die On (And How To Let Go A Little): Episode 388Sane & Satisfying Holiday Entertaining: Episode 130Is Your Family Table Growing Or Shrinking?: Episode 481Family Food Values & What’s Working For Us: Episode 244OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Sign up for our newsletterVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In early motherhood the kitchen can be full chaos: sippy cups, art projects, and endless daily responsibilities. But as kids get older, there may be room for moms to reclaim this space for ourselves. Meagan and Sarah explore the physical changes our kitchens have undergone—decluttering countertops, creating inviting cooking spaces, and personalizing our surroundings. We also dive into the mental and emotional aspects of this journey and the small steps you can take to make it happen – even if you’re not quite done with the sippys. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Pre-Order Meagan’s book, The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go And Embrace What’s Nest (This is an affiliate link.)Sarah loved IKEA’s kids tableware when her kids were littleSarah mentioned reading House Love by Patric Richardson, a joyful guide to cleaning, organizing and loving the home you’re in.(This is an affiliate link.)Episodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:Is Your Family Table Growing Or Shrinking?: Episode 481The Muscle Memory Of Motherhood: Episode 363“Always In Rotation” Dinners: Episode 453Small Home Refreshes To Kick Off Summer: Episode 466Kitchen Gadgets & Gear, Part 1: Episode 431 and Kitchen Gadgets & Gear, Part 2: Episode 432OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The world feels pretty heavy right now, and doom-scrolling doesn’t help. Today Meagan and Sarah talk about the tricky balance between staying informed as global citizens and not letting it all overwhelm us. We look at how overwhelm can lead to inaction and, on the flip side, how taking small actions – especially in our local communities – can provide a sense of purpose and even hope. Plus, we’ve got some practical ideas on how you can make a real difference in your community. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Interested in donating blood? Start here.Episodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:Headlines, Heartache & Helping: Episode 124More Than Mom: Social MediaReal Vs. Artificial (And How We Help Our Kids Tell The Difference)Rethinking Instagram: Episode 456OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ever thought about treating yourself to a completely frivolous outing? What about a great meal in a restaurant – table for one? Meagan and Sarah are here to explore the benefits of solo activities! We chat about the joys and quirks of spending time alone—do we really love it, or is it a little scary? What types of outings feel restorative to do alone, and which ones would we rather buddy up for? Get ready for creative ideas to carve out some me-time in the midst of mom-life. Join us!This is Part 1 of 3 in our ‘Treat Yo Self’ series this fall. Check back in mid-November for Part 2!HELPFUL LINKS:Sarah is reading The Artist’s Way, at Meagan’s recommendation (affiliate link)Meagan and Sarah referenced the Treat Yo Self episode of Parks and Recreation.Getting There Is Half The Fun (Especially When You’re Flying Solo) (this More Than Mom episode pairs nicely with this one!)Meagan talked about taking a solo trip to her childhood hometown – read more about it hereOTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you responsible for nurturing close bonds, planning family togetherness, and preserving tradition across generations? You might be a kinkeeper (and you probably have feelings about it!). Today Meagan and Sarah unpack the concept of kinkeeping, share our personal feelings about the work of living in and raising a connected family (our thoughts might surprise you!), and look at patterns from our own families of origin that adhere to – or break from – traditional kinkeeping roles. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:The New York Times piece The Constant Work to Keep a Family Connected Has a Name by Danielle Friedman got us thinking about this topic (gift link – no need to have a subscription)Why Dad’s Side of the Family Tends to Miss Out by Chiara Dello Joio in The Atlantic (gift link – no need to have a subscription)The Plight of the Eldest Daughter by Sarah Sloat, also in The Atlantic (also a gift link)Meagan referenced the episode Fall Traditions With Tweens & Teens: Episode 487Episodes You May Enjoy From The Archives:Nurturing Grandparent-Grandkid Relationships: Episode 390Seasonally-Inspired Homemaking & Parenting: Voices 79 With Katherine DeVriesGenealogy & Family History: Episode 441OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do happy moms do to keep stress, irritability, and dissatisfaction in check? While no mom feels joyful all the time, this classic episode from 2018 dives into ten habits of mostly-happy moms. Tune in to discover practical tips that can help you maintain perspective in the chaos of motherhood and bring more joy to your daily life. Enjoy!HELPFUL LINKS:Meagan’s 2011 book with Parenting Magazine is The Happiest Mom: 10 Secrets to Enjoying Motherhood.(This is an affiliate link.)KJ Dell’Antonia is our friend and parenting writer wrote the book How To Be A Happier Parent. (This is an affiliate link.)Episodes You May Enjoy From The Archives:What Are Your Mom Superpowers? Routines, Rituals & Traditions More Than Mom: Small Habits That Make A Big DifferenceHow To Be A Happier Parent with KJ Dell’Antonia: Voices 28OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If your kids are outgrowing handprint turkeys and pumpkin patch bouncy castles – or if you’re curious about life beyond trunk-or-treat – this episode is for you! Today Sarah shares with Meagan what fall fun looks like in her house of teens and a preteen. From fantasy football to ugly pumpkin pranks, bake-offs and taste-tests and more, we’re finding new ways to enjoy the season together as our kids get older. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Learn more about Fantasy FootballSamantha shared her countdown to halloween with our Facebook CommunityListen to The Girl Next Door podcast’s Fall Extravaganza episodeEpisodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:BONUS: Six Strategies For A Fall Wardrobe RebootMore Than Mom: Tiny Habits For Making The Most Of Your Fall Mom MojoMore Than Mom: Fall Style UpdateOn Our Tables This Fall: Episode 231Cozy Audiobooks For FallMore Than Mom: Fall!OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“This too shall pass,” we’re told. But will it? More importantly, DID IT? Today Meagan and Sarah reflect on parenting challenges that once felt monumental, taking time to unpack whether those hard seasons did, in fact, pass, or whether they lingered and shape-shifted into something else. We also look at some (though not all!) bygone struggles through the lens of nostalgia, offering perspective to newer moms in the form of a 2000’s country song. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Episodes From The Archives You May Enjoy:More Than Mom: Romanticizing The Hard StuffOn “Taking A Break” As A Mom (And Human!): Episode 423On Reparenting Ourselves: Episode 475Regrets, We’ve Had A Few: Episode 440OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today, we’re sharing an episode from another podcast we know you all are going to love. It’s called StrollerCoaster, and it was created by Munchkin, the most loved baby lifestyle brand in the world. StrollerCoaster is hosted by Lynn Smith – a mom and former news anchor for NBC – and co-hosted by an improv comedian. StrollerCoaster is a place to laugh over those crazy moments of parenting and learn something new. Together, Lynn and Justin talk about everything from practicing patience to kids snacks to making parent friends.Follow StrollerCoaster on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

“How am I supposed to get it all done?” Fear not: The Lazy Genius, Kendra Adachi, is here to help. Join Catie Parish as she chats with Kendra about time management, knowing yourself, and her new book, The Plan: Manage Your Time Like A Lazy Genius. Kendra shares practical strategies for prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and embracing flexibility in our routines. She also takes questions from The Mom Hour listener community. Join us!HELPFUL LINKS:Kendra recommends Sam Kelly, a parenting expert who helps families teach their children how to “notice”Manage your time like the Lazy Genius and Preorder The PlanEverything Lazy Genius Catie mentioned The Enneagram Test. Not sure what you are? Take the free assessment.Similar Episodes From The Archives:Time Management For The Season You’re In: Episode 483Time Management & Productivity Tips For Savvy Working Moms: Voices 54 With Whitnee HawthorneProductivity & Time Management Tips For Moms: Episode 169Kendra first appeared on The Mom Hour in Finding & Embracing What Matters To YOU: Voices 58 With The Lazy Genius Kendra AdachiOTHER HELPFUL LINKS:Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on Facebook (be sure to answer the membership questions!)Sign up for our newsletterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.