Episodit

  • In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Mary Hendricks sits down with fashion expert Katie Kabel to explore the transformative journey of rediscovering personal identity through style, especially for mothers. Together, they discuss how color analysis and intentional dressing can empower women to reclaim their confidence and celebrate their individuality. From navigating identity shifts in motherhood to embracing body changes and finding joy in daily life, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and meaningful reflections.

    Katie shares her transition from DJ to fashion expert, uncovering how style can be a tool for self-care and self-expression. They explore the concept of 'dopamine dressing,' discuss the role of color in boosting energy and mood, and encourage women to prioritize their own happiness by dressing with intention. The episode emphasizes the importance of 'bouncing forward' rather than striving to return to a pre-motherhood version of self.

    Whether you’re a mom navigating life’s many roles or someone seeking inspiration to embrace your own unique style, this episode will leave you motivated to step into your wardrobe with fresh eyes and renewed confidence.

    Key Takeaways:

    Katie Kabel shares her journey from DJ to fashion expert, highlighting the power of personal transformation.Color analysis can profoundly impact personal confidence and help women understand their best colors.Dressing intentionally can enhance self-image, motivation, and mood.'Dopamine dressing' is a concept that promotes joy through clothing choices.Motherhood often overshadows personal identity, but it’s vital to prioritize self-care and individuality.Embracing all aspects of womanhood—beyond motherhood—is essential for personal fulfillment.Finding joy outside of others and accepting body changes post-pregnancy are crucial steps toward self-acceptance.'Bouncing forward' is a healthier mindset than aiming to 'bounce back.'Women are encouraged to explore their personal style without fear, allowing it to evolve with their personal growth.Empowerment comes from curating a wardrobe that reflects your unique style and identity.

    Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode:

    Follow Katie Kabel on InstagramWork with Katie Picking Daisies Podcast IG Community

    Join the Conversation:
    We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your style transformations, color discoveries, or how you’re embracing the mindset of 'bouncing forward' on social media. Tag us @thepickingdaisiespod with the hashtag #BouncingForward.

    Subscribe & Share:
    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review to help us reach more women on their journey of self-discovery and growth. Share this episode with a friend who could use a little inspiration to find joy in her wardrobe and life.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • Well, I wasn't expecting this... but after sharing a little snippet of this song on my stories, I got hundreds of messages asking for the full version. So, here it is! This episode is just for you—whether you're here out of curiosity, love the vibe, or just want to have it on repeat.

    I wrote the lyrics, and with a little AI magic, the full song came to life. I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoyed creating it. Let me know what you think, and hey, who knows? Maybe there's more music in the future!

    Listen, share, and tag me if you love it!

    💛 Want more? Connect with me on Instagram @theverymarylife or @thepickingdaisiespod and let me know your thoughts!

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • Puuttuva jakso?

    Paina tästä ja päivitä feedi.

  • In this heartfelt episode, host Mary Hendricks sits down with Jordan Arogeti, co-founder of Support Now, to explore the intersection of motherhood, mental health, and the transformative power of community. Jordan shares her personal journey as a mom and the inspiration behind creating Support Now, a platform designed to simplify and normalize asking for help during life’s biggest moments. Together, they discuss how societal expectations and shame create barriers to seeking support and how technology can bridge those gaps.

    Whether it’s creating a registry for meals, childcare, or emotional support, Support Now is redefining the way families navigate challenges. Mary and Jordan also reflect on how the pandemic emphasized the importance of community and why moms don’t need to do it all alone.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    Why asking for help can feel so hard—and how to overcome it.How Support Now works to reduce the overwhelm families face during major life changes.The role of community in improving mental health and emotional well-being.How technology is reshaping support networks and making help more accessible.Practical ways to create registries for family support.Why it’s essential to break the myth of the “do-it-all mom.”Lessons from the pandemic on the importance of giving and receiving help.

    Key Takeaways:

    Support Now simplifies support for families by offering customizable solutions.Motherhood is challenging and often isolating, but community can change everything.Overcoming societal shame about asking for help is key to fostering connection.Technology offers innovative ways to facilitate care and support.Registries aren’t just for weddings and baby showers—they can be lifesavers in hard times.

    Resources and Links:

    Visit Support NowStay connected with Mary Hendricks over on @theverymarylife or @thepickingdaisiespod

    Share Your Thoughts:
    Have you ever struggled with asking for help? Join the conversation on social media and share your thoughts with Mary! Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode.

    Connect with Us:
    Follow Picking Daisies Podcast for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more inspiring conversations.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Mary Hendricks is joined by Kaitlyn Nilles to unpack the multifaceted roles of motherhood and the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal growth. Together, they explore the transition from corporate jobs to content creation, shedding light on the financial, emotional, and societal pressures moms face every day.

    The discussion emphasizes the value of all forms of motherhood—whether working outside the home, staying at home, or navigating entrepreneurship. Kaitlyn shares her journey as a single parent, highlighting the importance of quality time over quantity with kids and the need for self-care and mental health breaks. They also dive into co-parenting, the evolving dynamics of relationships post-divorce, and the empowerment that comes from knowing your worth.

    This episode is a candid reminder that no matter what label society places on you, all moms are working moms, and every role deserves recognition and support.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Value of All Mothers: Labels like "working mom" and "stay-at-home mom" are limiting and don’t reflect the hard work all mothers do.Quality Over Quantity: Time spent with kids doesn’t have to be constant to be meaningful.Mental Health Breaks: It’s okay to pause and invest in yourself—your growth benefits everyone.Navigating Change: Post-divorce relationships and co-parenting can evolve positively with communication and self-worth.Motherhood and Money: Childcare costs highlight the true value of unpaid parenting work.Entrepreneurship Reality: Content creation is a mix of passion, unpaid labor, and eventual reward.Support Systems: Community and connection are essential for moms navigating modern parenting.Social Expectations: Society’s definitions of motherhood need a serious overhaul—let’s celebrate every path moms take.

    LINKS MENTIONED:
    Listen to the me as a guest on Kailtyn's Podcast, I Didn't Sign Up For This
    https://open.spotify.com/episode/02qJz4GpxrudAKZwWawF5m
    To follow Kaitlyn: https://www.instagram.com/honestly.kaitlyn/ https://linktr.ee/honestlykaitlyn?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabHwD_S94Ogw4bTo3b7VRirCfzmQXRAH1zTyW0VTy8NI7HzNe6oXB4l8nU_aem_h4XWLVCV3wqyn-AZBmmOvQ

    REMEMBER: If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe to Picking Daisies and share it with a friend who needs some encouragement. Let’s grow through what we go through, together. 🌼


    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • After a year-long hiatus, Mary Hendricks is back with a brand-new season of Picking Daisies! In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Mary shares the journey that led to her break from podcasting and what inspired her return. She opens up about her struggles with mental health, including PMDD and ADHD, and the lessons she’s learned about healing, community, and the power of honesty.

    Mary also takes listeners behind the scenes of her podcasting experience, discussing the importance of structure and how embracing both the messy and beautiful parts of life has shaped her approach to this new season.

    Get ready for a season of authentic conversations, relatable stories, and heartfelt encouragement as Picking Daisiesreturns with a renewed focus on growth, support, and honesty.

    What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

    Why Mary took a year-long break from podcasting and what brought her back.The importance of structure in creating engaging content.How PMDD and ADHD have shaped Mary’s personal and professional journey.Why healing is a continuous journey rather than a destination.The value of community and support in navigating life’s challenges.How honesty in conversations can be both liberating and met with resistance.Why it’s essential to embrace the messy, imperfect moments of life.

    Key Takeaways:

    Podcasting is like the wild west—anyone can start, but structure is key to success.Mental health struggles like PMDD and ADHD are common and should be openly discussed.Healing is ongoing; it’s not about perfection but progress.Community support is vital for personal growth and resilience.Sharing the good, the bad, and the messy parts of life helps foster connection.Honesty in conversations may be met with resistance, but it’s worth it.Medication can be an effective tool in mental health management.

    Connect with Mary Hendricks & Picking Daisies:

    Instagram: [@TheVeryMaryLife]Newsletter: [Link to subscribe]

    Join the Conversation:
    We want to hear from you! What part of Mary’s journey resonated most with you? Share your thoughts on social media and tag us using [#PickingDaisiesPodcast].

    If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need encouragement. Together, we can embrace the mess and grow through what we go through.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this episode, Mary shares her personal journey of discovering and being diagnosed with ADHD. She discusses the symptoms and challenges she faced, as well as the impact it had on her daily life. Mary also explores the connection between ADHD and PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and how they can exacerbate each other. She shares her experience of starting medication for ADHD and the positive effects it has had on her overall well-being. Mary concludes by encouraging listeners to seek help and support if they suspect they may have ADHD.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this conversation, Katie and Mary discuss the challenges they face with school schedules and the frustrations surrounding Valentine's Day celebrations. They also delve into the difficulties they encounter with the school system, including issues with school registration and retention. The conversation highlights the considerations and concerns they have regarding kindergarten enrollment and the social development and maturity of their children. They emphasize the importance of advocating for their children and trusting their intuition. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the fight for their children's success and well-being. In this conversation, Mary and Katie discuss various challenges and experiences of parenting. They touch on topics such as body image and self-esteem, the mental load of parenting, the challenges of the teenage years, and the journey of parenthood. They also talk about feeling inadequate as parents and the struggles with yelling at kids. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the impact of parental mood on children and the importance of navigating busyness and setting priorities.

    Takeaways

    Advocate for your children and trust your intuition when it comes to their education and well-being.Challenges with school schedules and policies can cause frustration and stress for parents.Consider the social development and maturity of your child when making decisions about kindergarten enrollment.The school system may have limitations and rules that don't always align with the needs of individual children.The fight for your children's success and well-being requires perseverance and determination. Body image and self-esteem can be sensitive topics for children, and it's important for parents to address them in a positive and supportive way.Parenting comes with a heavy mental load, especially as children get older, and it's important for parents to find ways to manage and prioritize their own well-being.The teenage years can be challenging for both parents and children, and it's important to maintain open communication and understanding during this time.Parenthood is a journey with ups and downs, and it's normal to feel inadequate at times. It's important to remember that no one has all the answers and to seek support when needed.Yelling at kids can have a negative impact on their self-esteem and emotional well-being, and parents should strive to find alternative ways to discipline and communicate with their children.Parental mood and behavior can significantly impact children, and it's important for parents to be mindful of their own emotions and reactions.Navigating busyness and setting priorities is a common challenge for parents, and it's important to find a balance that allows for self-care and quality time with family.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this episode, Mary interviews Emma Jasper, also known as the Dilemmas of Emma online. Emma shares her personal journey of resilience and self-discovery after going through a divorce. She emphasizes the importance of embracing main character energy and making choices that align with your own desires and values. Emma encourages listeners to find joy in everyday moments and appreciate the little things in life. She also discusses the challenges and growth that come with navigating life's plot twists. Emma concludes by sharing her current work as a social media manager and content creator, highlighting the importance of finding purpose in one's career. In this conversation, Emma Jasper and Mary discuss the importance of intentionality and self-love. They emphasize the need to create purpose and meaning in everyday activities, highlighting the value of self-care and self-compassion. Additionally, they discuss the story of Cat Janice, a musician battling lung cancer, and the importance of supporting her by spreading her music and dancing to it.

    Takeaways

    Embrace main character energy and make choices that align with your own desires and values.Find joy in everyday moments and appreciate the little things in life.Navigate life's challenges with resilience and a growth mindset.Find purpose and fulfillment in your career by aligning it with your passions and values.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this episode, your host Mary discusses the topic of closing the chapter on the baby making years. She shares her personal experiences and emotions surrounding this transition. Mary also addresses the pressure and expectations that society places on individuals regarding the decision to have more children. She encourages listeners to be honest with themselves and to consider their own desires and feelings when making this decision. Ultimately, Mary emphasizes that it is okay to sit on the fence and take the time to figure out what is best for oneself and one's family.

    Takeaways

    Closing the chapter on the baby making years can be a complex and emotional process.Feeling unsure or on the fence about having more children is valid and should be respected.It is important to consider one's own desires and feelings when making the decision to have more children.Society's pressure and expectations should not dictate one's decision regarding family size.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this conversation, Mary and Ashley from Tiny Human Print Co. discuss the importance of confidence in children and how it can be nurtured through positive parenting. They explore the impact of words and body image on children's self-esteem and the role of social media in shaping their perceptions. They also delve into the issue of trolling and online behavior, highlighting the need to raise kids who are kind and empathetic online.

    The conversation emphasizes the power of words and the importance of authenticity and vulnerability on social media. They conclude by discussing the challenges of parenting in the digital age and the need for love and emotional connection in raising resilient children.

    The conversation explores the evolution of social media platforms and their impact on children. It also delves into the importance of teaching emotional intelligence to kids and modeling positive behavior. Additionally, the discussion highlights the need to monitor conversations with adults as children are always listening.

    To Follow Ashely, you can find her here:https://www.instagram.com/tinyhumanprintco/
    To shop her prints: https://tinyhumanprintco.com/ Code VERYMARY will get you 20% off anything on the site

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this conversation, Mary and Katie discuss the impact of perspective and the importance of focusing on what truly matters in life. They share their experiences with online criticism and the challenges of dealing with trolls. The conversation also delves into the judgment surrounding cosmetic procedures and the need to respect personal choices. They explore the trap of relatability and the pressure to conform to certain expectations. Finally, they discuss the evolution and growth of creators and the importance of protecting mental well-being in the face of online hate. In this conversation, Katie Costa and Mary discuss the pressure to be relatable on social media and the challenges that come with it. They explore the contradictions of social media and the difficulties of navigating criticism and disagreements. They also touch on the importance of differentiating mom shaming from constructive criticism and the significance of sharing safety concerns. The conversation concludes with a discussion on dealing with trolls and haters, choosing who to follow and engage with, and the upcoming changes on Katie's page. The main takeaway is the importance of kindness and empathy in online interactions.

    Takeaways

    Life can change in an instant, reminding us of what truly matters.Online criticism is inevitable, but it's important to respond with kindness and not let it bring you down.Everyone has the right to make choices about their appearance, and judgment should be replaced with respect and understanding.The pressure to be relatable can be limiting, and it's important to embrace authenticity and individuality.Creators should prioritize their mental well-being and not let online hate affect their self-worth.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • In this episode, host Mary Hendricks opens up about her personal experience with PMDD (Perimenstrual Dysphoric Disorder). She discusses the symptoms she has been experiencing, including imposter syndrome, irritability, and appetite changes. Mary also shares her struggles with suicidal ideation and the importance of seeking a diagnosis and opening up to healthcare providers. She explores different treatment options, including medication and nutrition, and emphasizes the role of nutrition and blood sugar in managing PMDD. As a mom and content creator, Mary discusses the challenges of navigating PMDD and encourages breaking the stigma surrounding women's health issues.

    Takeaways

    PMDD (Perimenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) is a distinct condition that is different from PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). It causes extreme mood shifts and can disrupt work and relationships.Symptoms of PMDD include extreme sadness, irritability, appetite changes, sleep disturbances, and suicidal ideation.It is important to seek a diagnosis and open up to healthcare providers about your symptoms. Don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and find a provider who takes your concerns seriously.Treatment options for PMDD include medication (such as SSRIs) and nutrition changes. Paying attention to blood sugar levels and incorporating healthy fats and protein into your diet can help manage symptoms.Navigating PMDD as a mom and content creator can be challenging, but it is important to prioritize self-care and seek support from others who understand your experience.


    To check out Miranda from The Period Lab, who is helping me with my PMDD, you can find her here: https://www.mirandapopen.com/periodlab

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • It's 2024 and we are back with another Katie's Corner with my bi-montly cohost, Katie Costa from @mommyneeds_morewine.

    In this episode, Katie and I discuss the challenges of parenting and feeling overwhelmed. We talk about the importance of focusing on the present moment and the power of manifestation. We also share their thoughts on setting goals and resolutions for the new year. The conversation touches on finding balance in life, the fear of losing purpose after children grow up, and the excitement of planning future trips and events.

    Watch this episode over on YouTube

    Takeaways
    Don't let social media backlash affect your self-worth. Focus on your own goals and desires.

    Find filters that make you feel good and align with your own values and vision of life.Trust your intuition and listen to your gut instincts when making decisions.Live authentically and be true to yourself, even if it means facing challenges and criticism.Make the most of every day and appreciate the present moment. Time is fleeting, and life can change in an instant.Balancing work and family can be challenging, but it's important to prioritize what truly matters.Doing less can lead to doing more. Focus on quality over quantity and pour your energy into what truly matters.Transitioning to new platforms, such as YouTube, can open up new opportunities for growth and connection.Set goals that align with your values and desires, and don't be afraid to adjust them as needed.The Magic of Manifesting: 15 Advanced Techniques To Attract Your Best Life, Even If You Think It's Impossible Now


    My book: Hey, Little Mama

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • Statistics show that about 40% of Americans have a fear of flying - that's 1 in 6 people! And yes... as I'm sure you know by now. I am that 1.

    I've had a few recent trips that really put me through it with anxiety and fear of getting on an airplane, so I'm so glad I was able to have this conversation with Kyle Koukol - an airline pilot and business owner who specializes in easing the public's fear of flying.

    Episode Highlights:
    -Recognizing anxiety and how to cope
    -Filtering out what you see online, and what's actually true
    -Interesting, lesser-known safety precautions airlines take
    -Answering questions of why we do certain things on a flight
    -Are certain airlines better than others?

    Kyle Koukol is one of the pilots and experts behind Dial A Pilot, a service that matches nervous fliers with a professional pilot to answer any and all questions about an upcoming flight. Follow along for great tips and insight on Instagram at @DialAPilot.


    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • If you're tired of telling your partner where the apple juice is in the fridge, then settle in. We're breaking down the mental and emotional load that comes with motherhood - and, even better - how to take actionable steps to lighten that load in your house.

    From the self-proclaimed "Recovering Man Child," Zach Watson is on a mission to make a more equitable world for his daughter.

    Episode Highlights:
    -Breaking down the concepts of Fair Play
    -How he is learning and adapting to approaching parenting as a team
    -Starting the conversation with your spouse
    -How his content is meant to encourage and influence the "modern dad"
    -Why it's more about equity than equality

    Zach Watson is a husband, dad, and content creator focusing on how to share the domestic, mental, and emotional load of parenthood. You can find more information about his Relationship Goals Consult on his website, and follow along on Instagram and TikTok for more great videos.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • It's the holiday season and here we are - freaking TIRED. I know you feel it, too.

    Let's get into it. Sit in this burnout, together. Have some laughs. Katie's here to make it all happen with me.

    Episode Highlights:
    -The marathon and difficulty of buying gifts for everyone
    -How do we feel about a hamster?
    -Making Christmas special without losing our sanity
    -Do we have ADHD?
    -Living in a state of organized chaos

    Katie Costa is my hilarious friend behind @mommyneeds_morewine and joins me each month as co-host for an always relatable, always fun episode. Enjoy!

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • Screen time is a polarizing issue for all parents - do you, or don't you? How much is too much? What's good and what's not? Thankfully, I'm talking to two experts who are dedicating their careers to helping parents let go of guilt and approach screens from a well-researched and realistic point of view.

    Dr. Roxy Etta and Dr. Liz Horgan are the two moms behind @ThoseMediaMoms, and offer some really great insight and tips for managing your day-to-day - because let's face it, screens aren't going anywhere. Let's all breathe a sigh of relief knowing we're not ruining our kids because they watch a show here and there.

    Episode Highlights:

    How to use screens in the most beneficial way for kidsLaying the foundation for a lifetime of healthy habitsResearch-based tips on how to approach screen timeRecommended showsThe Wild West of Apps

    Dr. Roxy Etta is a mom to 3 and earned her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She's spent the last 10 years studying the intersection of kids and families with screens. Roxy and her family live in Wisconsin.

    Dr. Liz Horgan is a mom to 2 and earned her Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies with a minor in Educational Psychology at UW-Madison. She focuses on digital play, and what parents think about it, through her experience researching children's cognitive development. Liz and her family live in Georgia.

    Together, as @ThoseMediaMoms, they aim to empower parents raising young children in the digital world through research-based solutions developed by true experts and moms.

    Their work has been featured by organizations around the world including the International Communication Association, Society for Research in Child Development, Cognitive Development Society, American Psychological Association, and Good Morning America.

    Find more information on their website, www.ThoseMediaMoms.com as well as links to their courses, The Science of Screen Time and Family Media Reset. You can also follow them on Instagram, @ThoseMediaMoms.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • I am thrilled to introduce a new voice to the podcast: Kendall Smith, author of Rookie Father: A Playbook for Men Experiencing Fatherhood for the First Time."

    Kendall is a veteran dad who uses his life experiences to help other men navigate fatherhood, especially if they didn't have a father figure at home growing up. This is a great listen for your partner, but know this is not just for men! It's a conversation I think we all need to hear, to create the balanced home we all desire.

    Episode Highlights:

    How and where he learned to navigate the role of "Dad"Tips for showing appreciation to your spouseHow the roles are shifting between Moms and Dads - for the better!Why Dads aren't just accessories at home any longer

    Kendall Smith is a father and the author of Rookie Father: A Playbook for Men Experiencing Fatherhood for the First Time. His goal in writing the book is to advise new dads, who didn't have a father figure growing up. It includes parenting tips, projects, cooking, and tips for relationships. You can read more about Kendall on his website, and check out his book from national and local booksellers.

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • This is not a drill.

    The OG everyone-can-relate-viral-social media Moms are HERE. Yes, I'm talking about Cat & Nat: best-selling authors, podcasters, content creators, and fellow-mom cheerleaders.

    I am a BIG fan of these two women, and I'm so grateful they took the time to join me for this episode. They are honest and so, so real: you won't want to miss their advice on the different stages of parenting, making mom friends, and yes - even some sex confessions.

    Episode Highlights:

    How "Cat & Nat" the brand was bornChanging the narrative of the "Perfect Mom"Parenting advice for a few seasons aheadHow your mindset shifts as kids get olderMaking mom friends - why is it so hard?Setting boundaries onlineFocusing on health out of necessity, not vanity

    From catandnat.ca:

    With seven kids between the two of them, Cat & Nat know just how lonely and isolating motherhood can be. So, they set out on a mission to bring women and moms together by hosting dinner parties and events - with wine and without babies. The events garnered huge success in Toronto and were talked about all over, leading Cat & Nat to take things to the next level and break into the online world to reach more people and connect women and moms everywhere.

    Cat & Nat's rapidly-exploding community of like-minded moms tune in every day to watch them rewrite the paradigm of “the perfect mom.” With honesty and humor, Cat & Nat dismantle the unrealistic portrayals of motherhood that are often presented throughout social and traditional media. Through their virally famous #MOMTRUTHS videos, which have garnered hundreds of millions of views, their Facebook Lives and Instagram stories, their best-selling book, and iHeartRadio award nominated podcast, Cat & Nat share everything moms think but are too afraid to talk about. Over the past few years, Cat & Nat have taken their #MOMTRUTHS on the road, performing over 100 live shows across North America.

    Check out the links below to follow, like and support Cat & Nat:

    Podcast
    Instagram
    YouTube
    Facebook
    TikTok
    Books

    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com



  • Geordian Abel is a new mom who likes to get up and get fully dressed for the day - and the internet has a BIG problem with that.

    Yikes.

    I'm sure by now you've seen the post that launched Geordian into the public eye, but if not - we're talking all about it in today's episode. Geordian shares her daily routine that helps her feel successful as a mom. If it's different from the way you do things, cool. Is she a bad person? No. Are you? No. Can we all take a minute and quit judging strangers online? Yes. Let's get into it.

    Episode Highlights:

    Thoughts on "that" video and the chaos that followedStepping into motherhood, and what works for different peopleThe guilt and anxiety that comes with leaving our kidsSocietal pressure to do things the "right" way

    Geordian Abel is a wife and mom to son, Hutton, and lives in Fort Worth, Texas. She owns an online boutique, Flourish in Frills, and shares her fashion finds and lifestyle online via her Instagram @GeordianAbel and her website, www.adoremorewithgeor.com.



    Join Mary everyday for a real look into life with 3 crazy ass kids, surviving, thriving, and whatever the F else you might consider over at www.instagram.com/theverymarylife. Or if you're a Tik Tok fan, find me at https://www.tiktok.com/@theverymarylife. And of course, explore more on Theverymarylife.com