Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel

Welcome back to Unprepared with Rachel and Sahar! This week, we’re diving into a topic every parent can relate to—how our own upbringings shape the way we raise our kids. From strict immigrant households to free-spirited third-child chaos, we compare our childhoods and discuss the values, discipline styles, and traditions we’ve carried forward (or left behind).Plus, Sahar spills on her wildly different high school reunion experience (and why you should definitely go to yours). Whether you’re a parent, a soon-to-be parent, or just curious about generational shifts, this episode is packed with laughs, relatable struggles, with a little sprinkle of hard earned wisdomWhat parenting habits did you inherit (or avoid like the plague)? Let us know at @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel and follow your favorite hosts @swan_sahar and @rackenz

Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel after a brief hiatus—and boy, do we have stories to share! In this episode, the hosts recap their very different recent trips: Sahar’s rustic, chaotic family adventure at a spider-filled Canadian lake cottage (complete with 10 kids and zero showers) versus Rachel’s ultra-luxurious, butler-serviced baby moon at Nemacolin Resort.From debating "outdoorsy vs. outsidey" lifestyles to the shocking $10,000 price difference between plastic surgeons (yes, we’re talking boob jobs), no topic is off-limits. Plus, Rachel drops details about her dreamy spa retreat, while Sahar reveals whether she actually swam in the lake (spoiler: she did!).Whether you’re a mom dreaming of a kid-free escape or just love hearing brutally honest takes on postpartum bodies, cosmetic procedures, and the real cost of "self-care," this episode is for you.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

This week we are feeling nostalgic! Join us for a look back on our journey so far, remixed and remastered for your listening pleasure. It's hard to believe it has already been 25 episodes since we first began this wild ride and we appreciate each and everyone of you for continuing to tune in to our show. So lets hop in the imagination time machine and check out where it all began!Whether you are new to the show or have been here since day one, this episode serves as a great reminder of why we started this show and what you can expect in the many episodes to come!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel! This week, we’re diving into the wild world of babysitters. The girls share their craziest sitter stories, from a woman who definitely is(n’t) a smoker, to a girl who recognized ADHD in Sahar’s child and brought it up in the worst way possible, and these aren’t even the craziest you’ll hear!Then, we pivot to the bedtime struggle bus—how do you wrangle multiple kids into bed without losing your sanity? Rachel’s terrified of adding a third to the mix, while Rachel’s kids have mastered the art of trapping their dad in a crib. We’ll debate "chit-chat time," rotating night shifts, and whether hiring a night nurse counts as cheating.Whether you’re laughing, cringing, or taking notes, we’d love for you to listen in!Don’t forget to rate and review—and maybe send us your own babysitter horror stories to @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Welcome back to Unprepared! In this dynamite episode, Sahar and Rachel hang out with Cameron Kaplan, Rachel’s sister-in-law! They talk about Cameron’s yearly visit to Rachel’s house, and the inevitable chaos that comes when 2 families of littles crash together. From chocolate bunny disasters, to great ideas for wholesome family fun, this episode is electric from the first second, to the last!The girls also dive into more serious talk, with insights on being a woman in a male-dominated investment firm, the push and pull of confidence, and how motherhood can change not only your personal self, but your professional self as well.Whether you’re here for the sister-in-law banter, the parenting truths, or the sheer chaos of three moms oversharing, this episode delivers!Disclaimer: No plants, price tags, or husbands were harmed in the making of this podcast.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

This week on Unprepared, Sahar sits down with Lauren Proffitt, the sleep trainer who saved her sanity when her first child refused to sleep more than 45 minutes at a time. They revisit Sahar’s desperate early days of motherhood—crippling sleep deprivation, postpartum anxiety, and the moment she realized this isn’t normal—and how Lauren’s in-home sleep training transformed their family. Lauren breaks down the myths, the realities of customizing sleep plans for each child’s personality, and why naps are actually harder to fix than nighttime sleep. Plus: the surprising truth about breastfed babies and sleep training, and why parents shouldn’t feel guilty for prioritizing rest.From newborns to defiant 5-year-olds, Lauren shares her decade of experience helping families reclaim their nights (and sanity). Whether you’re a sleep-deprived new parent or battling bedtime with a toddler, this episode is all about what a sleep trainer could do for you and yours. Because everyone deserves rest.Want to hire Lauren’s services? Check out https://clebaby.com for more information!Share your best sleep story at @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel or follow Sahar @swan_sahar and Rachel @rackenz 

Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel. This week your favorite working moms dissect a controversial TikTok trend where women proudly embrace extreme gender roles: refusing to speak to waitstaff, letting their husbands tie their shoes, and performing quiet, demure femininity as a lifestyle. Is this a harmless personal choice, or does it reinforce dangerous stereotypes about women’s autonomy?We debate the fine line between partnership and patriarchy, sharing our own messy, real-life experiences with mental load, weaponized incompetence, and why actually equal parenting matters. Plus, stick around to hear our mom wins and mom fails.Listen to the full Princess Treatment video here Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of birth with special guest, doula Hannah. Their conversation was so juicy, we had to split it into 2 parts! From the unpredictable twists of labor to the importance of trauma-informed support, we explore what no one prepares women for—emotionally. Hannah shares her wisdom on overcoming fear, balancing birth stories (without toxic positivity!), and why having the right doula can make all the difference.We also tackle systemic issues in maternal care, the rise of "birth influencers," and the pressure of "bounce back" culture. Plus, Hannah shares one of her wildest birth stories! Whether you’re expecting, a new parent, or just curious about the realities of childbirth, this episode is packed with raw, real, and empowering conversations.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

CONTENT WARNING: Discussion of Mental Health and Graphic Medical ProceduresIn this raw and powerful episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel sit down with Hannah, a doula with a story that reshapes everything we think we know about birth, trauma, and postpartum mental health. The girls leave no subject on the table and Hannah shares her own harrowing birth experience—from a prolapsed umbilical cord emergency to a NICU stay, and ultimately, a postpartum psychosis diagnosis that changed her life. This isn’t just a birth story—it’s a lifeline for anyone who’s felt unprepared, isolated, or shamed by their postpartum experience.Connect with Hannah:www.hannahdoula.com@hannahbirthdoula on InstagramConnect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

Welcome back to Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel! With summer in full swing, we dive into the challenges of the summer schedule, the merits and drawbacks of summer camps, and setting proper sleep over boundaries.We also discuss the importance of fostering independence, instilling trust, and setting boundaries around social media, TikTok, and the unfiltered nature of the internet. Join us as we unpack the realities of parenting, share laughs, and seek advice on how best to prepare our kids for the world ahead. Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

In this episode of Unprepared, join us for a candid and lively chat about summer adventures, family travel, and the wild ride of expecting number three! From overpacking on a cruise to toddler mayhem at the pool, we share funny mom fails, parenting hacks, and heartfelt moments. Plus, get the scoop on Rachel’s pregnancy journey at 23 weeks and her thoughts on welcoming another little one. Whether you're navigating bedtime battles or dreaming of future vacations, this episode is packed with real-talk, laughs, and a dash of chaos. Tune in for honest parenting stories and a reminder that, despite the madness, we're all in this together.Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, we dive into the raw realities of mom rage — those moments when patience runs out and emotions boil over. From bedtime battles to that boiling over moment, we share our personal experiences, struggles, and surprising tips for managing the chaos. Whether you're a seasoned mom or new to the journey, you'll find comfort in knowing you're not alone. Join us as we explore how acknowledging our triggers, practicing self-compassion, and owning our imperfections can help us to be better spouses, moms, and co-workers. Grab a cup of coffee (or wine) and let's get real about the wild, wonderful, and sometimes messy world of being a mom.What was your worst Mom Rage Moment? Reach out to @swan_sahar and @rackenz or join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

As the days get longer and summer approaches, moms everywhere feel the pressure to make the most of the season — from activities and festivals to endless outings. But how do we balance all the fun without burning out? In this episode of Unprepared with Sahar and Rachel, we dive into the chaos, joys, and best practices of summertime parenting. Plus, in a new segment, Sahar and Rachel share their biggest mom fails and best mom wins as well as the emotional tug of war that comes with both. Whether you’re planning summer camps or just trying to survive the heat, this episode is your friendly reminder to keep it simple, and enjoy the sunshine no matter what's happening under it!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

In this episode of Unprepared, Sahar and Rachel dive into the trending world of tradwives, social media influence, and the complex issues surrounding body image, parenting, and cultural expectations. From exploring the romanticized 1950s gender roles to the realities behind influencer lifestyles, we examine how social media shapes our perceptions of family, success, and identity. Plus, we discuss the impact of diet culture, the "almond mom" phenomenon, and the importance of fostering healthy mindsets in our children. Join us as we unpack these topics with humor, honesty, and a desire to navigate this new frontier of parenting!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel

In this introspective episode of Unprepared, Sahar (not Sean) and Rachel reflect on the importance of strong friendships, how to do Mother’s Day the right way, and the importance of using getaways to recharge your batteries. With kids, husbands, and parents pulling you every which way, spending time with your village is not only fun, but necessary to be your best for the people that matter!As the conversation evolves, your favorite working moms turn their attention to the Male Loneliness Epidemic, the fact that men don’t seem to see the value in opening up to their friends, and the weight that being closed off to friends can put on their spouses.With such important questions as “what do men talk about when they golf anyway?” You won’t want to miss this dynamic and candid conversation!Connect with Sahar and Rachel on Instagram @swan_sahar and @rackenz and join the conversation @unprepared_w_sahar_and_rachel