In this episode, hosts, Kelly and Jessica explore the transformative idea of “mothering ourselves” and how it can lead to more joy, peace, and fulfillment in midlife. Jessica and Kelly share personal stories, helpful mindset shifts, and practical daily rituals that help prioritize self-care without guilt. From learning that your needs matter just as much as everyone else's, to redefining what happiness looks like as we age, this episode is full of validation and inspiration. It’s time to care for yourself with the same tenderness you give to others—because you deserve to feel full, not just functional.

Topics Covered:

• What it means to mother ourselves

• Mindset Shifts:

  1. Self-care is survival, not selfish

  2. Your needs matter as much as others

  3. You’re allowed to redefine happiness

• Daily rituals that fill your cup

• The mental load and how to shift out of burnout mode

✨ Tune in for real talk, real tips, and a gentle nudge toward more joyful, intentional living in midlife.

In this episode, Jessica and Kelly dive into the importance of advocating for your kids — whether it's snagging a coveted summer camp spot or navigating the competitive world of magnet school admissions. Kelly shares the rollercoaster of emotions when her son Beckett was waitlisted for camp and how a little persistence (and an email!) turned things around. Jessica talks about her son Dominic’s surprising lottery acceptance into a highly competitive magnet high school and why showing up and staying ready matters more than we think.

They discuss: ✅ The value of following up (and not just waiting passively) ✅ How local preferences often play a quiet role in camp admissions ✅ What to expect from highly selective magnet schools ✅ Why it’s okay to pivot plans last-minute if a better opportunity comes up ✅ Lessons learned about showing up early and staying engaged

Whether you’re a parent navigating summer planning or school transitions, this episode is packed with real-life insights on how to create opportunities — and why luck favors the proactive.

Reflecting on Motherhood: A Conversation with Our Mom

In this episode of Chasing Brighter, hosts Kelly and Jess sit down with their mom to discuss her life journey, parenting experiences, and reflections. They delve into her childhood, growing up in rural western Kansas, and raising two daughters. Their mom shares valuable insights on the evolution of motherhood, the challenges of working while raising children, and the importance of family bonding.

The episode is filled with amusing anecdotes, heartfelt memories, and wisdom on thriving as a woman through different seasons of life.

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message

00:10 Meet Our Special Guest: Mom

01:05 Childhood Memories and Sibling Rivalries

03:58 Growing Up in Rural Kansas

04:43 Reflections on Parenting and Family Life

07:06 Becoming a Parent: Expectations and Realities

15:25 Funny and Embarrassing Childhood Stories 16:37 Embarrassing Childhood Memories

17:22 Preschool Graduation and Shyness

18:51 Jessica's Quick Trip Incident

20:17 Family Road Trip Adventures

23:18 Changes in Motherhood Over the Years

26:07 Balancing Work and Family Time

29:55 Reflecting on Family and Podcasting