In this episode, Tara chats with Dyanne Griffin of TeacherLists.com about the challenges and strategies parents face during the back-to-school season. From the stress of getting everything ready in time to the importance of being organized, they dive into practical tips to make the transition smoother for both parents and kids. They discuss everything from shopping early and using Teacherlists.com, to involving kids in lunch planning and doing dry runs to the bus stop. It’s all about easing anxiety, staying on top of things, and avoiding the last-minute scramble.

According to a recent study, over 60% of parents feel stressed about back-to-school prep. It doesn’t have to be that way. Tara and Dyanne highlight the power of planning ahead, using online tools, and even teaming up with neighbors for bulk buying. They also touch on the importance of creating calm morning routines and the often-overlooked need for parents to care for themselves, too. It’s a helpful, encouraging conversation full of real talk and actionable ideas to help every parent feel a little more in control this school year.

Links:

https://www.teacherlists.com/

In this informative episode, Tara sits down with certified sleep coach Alexa Martinez to explore one of the most common (and exhausting) parenting challenges: sleep. Alexa opens up about her own journey from sleep-deprived mom to expert consultant, and shares practical advice for navigating baby and toddler sleep struggles. From debunking common sleep training myths to understanding how sleep impacts the entire family, this conversation offers both reassurance and real-world strategies for tired parents everywhere.

Tara and Alexa also discuss the emotional toll of sleep deprivation, the importance of trusting your parenting instincts, and why no one-size-fits-all approach works when it comes to kids' sleep. They touch on surprising tools, like color psychology, and how involving children in the process can create smoother transitions. Whether you're deep in a sleep regression or just looking for guidance, this episode is packed with compassionate advice and helpful resources to remind you: you're not alone, and better sleep is possible.

Links:

https://www.instagram.com/mama.matters.too

https://mamamatterstoo.com/

In this fun episode, Tara sits down with bestselling author, journalist and podcaster Jo Piazza to unpack the rise of the “TradWife” trend and what it reveals about womanhood, motherhood, and media in 2025. Jo shares highlights from her new book, Everyone Is Lying to You, which dives deep into the curated illusions of influencer culture and the pressure it places on modern moms. Together, they explore how over-parenting, performative authenticity, and the fine line between privacy and public life are shaping today’s parenting experience.

The conversation also takes a refreshing turn toward the importance of rest and reclaiming the right to “do nothing” as a form of radical self-care. Jo and Tara discuss how empowerment doesn’t have to mean rejecting traditional roles—it’s about choice and agency. Whether you’re wrestling with the expectations of social media or simply trying to find a moment of peace in your day, this episode is a reminder that the most powerful thing a mom can be is real.

Links:

https://www.jopiazza.com/

https://amzn.to/4kjFerb