In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Tara sits down with educator, entrepreneur, and fellow podcast host Jennie Monness for a real talk about the beautifully messy journey of modern motherhood. The two dive into Jennie’s inspiration behind her podcast We Didn't Turn Out Okay, sharing how storytelling can create powerful connections between parents who often feel like they’re figuring it out alone.

Together, they explore how listening—with intention and empathy—is one of the most impactful tools in both parenting and podcasting. Jennie opens up about the importance of respecting children's privacy when creating content and how even the smallest personal anecdotes often resonate more deeply than polished parenting advice. They also touch on the emotional intelligence needed to parent in today’s fast-paced world, the pressure moms face on social media, and how building a supportive village truly matters.

From toddler tales to visual routine boards, this episode is full of relatable moments and tangible takeaways for parents at any stage. It's a warm, honest reminder that motherhood is a constant evolution—and connection makes the ride smoother.

Tune in and join the conversation—because every story shared is one less mom feeling alone.

Links:

https://www.instagram.com/jenniemonness/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1-getting-stuck-on-the-little-things-and-raising-a/id1788590518

https://www.instagram.com/charmspring/

https://www.instagram.com/unionsquareplay/

In this empowering episode, Tara talks with Ned Johnson, co-author of The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives, about how we as parents can step back a little to help our kids step up. They dive into why giving children more autonomy and a real sense of control isn’t just helpful...it’s essential for their mental health and long-term success. Ned shares how shifting from being a “controller” to more of a “consultant” can build trust, resilience, and confidence in our kids, especially during the tricky teenage years. They also touch on the weight so many moms carry, feeling responsible for every outcome, and how taking a calmer, less anxious approach can actually create more connection. This conversation is full of real talk, relatable stories, and gentle reminders that letting our kids make mistakes is part of the journey, and that we’re doing better than we think.

Links:
https://theselfdrivenchild.com/

In this episode, Tara chats with author, coach, and doula Jessie Harrold about the deep, often overlooked transition into motherhood, matrescence. Far beyond just the physical experience of having a baby, matrescence is a major life transformation that unfolds over two to three years, reshaping a mother’s body, mind, and identity.

Together, they explore the emotional layers of motherhood: the feeling of "losing yourself," the natural grief that can come with identity shifts, and why it’s so important to give space for those feelings. Jessie shares insights from her book Mother Shift, as well as thoughts on the fourth trimester, the push-pull of career changes, and the evolving cultural conversations around what it means to be a mom today.

This episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood isn’t just a role. It’s a metamorphosis.

Tune in and give yourself the permission to grieve, grow, and embrace the beautiful mess of modern motherhood. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a fellow mama who might need to hear it!

Links:
https://www.jessieharrold.com/
https://www.jessieharrold.com/mothershiftbook/

https://www.jessieharrold.com/