• 33. The Truth Behind Authentic Work Life Balance for Moms with Shelley Meche'tte
    Nov 22 2024

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    Ever felt like you're juggling a thousand roles and still losing touch with yourself? That's a sentiment many mothers feel, and in our latest episode, we bring in Shelley Mache'tte, a certified life purpose and confidence coach, to share how she reclaimed her sense of self amid the chaos of motherhood. Shelley speaks from the heart, recounting her personal transformation as she navigated through the demanding roles of being a single mom, a stay-at-home parent, and a working mother. Her story is not just about surviving motherhood but thriving alongside personal goals, and it's a powerful reminder that it's possible to pursue your dreams while being a devoted parent.

    Society often sets us up with high expectations, urging us to excel in both our careers and personal lives, sometimes leading to a paralyzing feeling of guilt. Elizabeth and Shelley dive into how early perceptions shape our understanding of success and challenge those norms, advocating for a redefined perspective. They make a compelling argument for embracing diverse definitions of success, whether that means climbing the corporate ladder or finding contentment in a simpler, more fulfilling life. By shifting the narrative, they empower women to embrace their multifaceted identities and resist judgment.

    Balance is a moving target, especially when you throw motherhood and career into the mix. As we navigate through life's changing seasons, balance often means prioritizing different areas at different times. We discuss the myth of having it all, the guilt tied to societal expectations, and how, sometimes, being present for a child's milestone is the most rewarding achievement. By sharing our stories, we hope to inspire you to make intentional choices that align with your current life stage and recognize that every path is valid and worth celebrating. Join us, and let Shelley's wisdom guide you through the beautiful mess that is motherhood and ambition.

    Shelley's website
    Grab Shelley's Balanced Mom Blueprint

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    47 mins
  • 32. Navigating Emotional Eating and Cultivating Self-Confidence with Melissa Rohlfs
    Nov 15 2024

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    Unpack the mysteries of healthy eating, emotional connections to food, and self-confidence in our latest episode of "Never Too Festive." I'm thrilled to have Melissa Rohlfs, a holistic health and life coach, share her journey from sugar-dependence to a balanced lifestyle. Together, we promise to guide you through the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition, making sense of past misconceptions like the infamous low-fat craze, and finding a path that suits your individual needs. By tuning in, you'll gather insights on how to enjoy holiday indulgences without the weight of guilt, all while setting a positive example for your little ones.

    Explore the emotional landscape of our eating habits and its roots in childhood experiences and societal pressures. Recognize the red flags of emotional eating, whether it's hidden snacks or a child's meal avoidance, and discover how to address these behaviors with empathy and understanding. Melissa and I delve into the psychological impact of food allergies and the early feeding challenges that might shape a child's relationship with food. Join us as we unravel the complex emotions tied to our plates, offering practical advice for fostering healthier, guilt-free relationships with food.

    Finally, let's reflect on how societal beauty standards influence our self-worth and body image, inspired by nostalgic tales from the Sweet Valley High series. We discuss the fine line between being physically fit and conforming to unrealistic ideals, especially for young women. With a focus on empowering moms, we highlight strategies for building self-confidence in teenagers and creating a nurturing space for open dialogue. Plus, we share mindful eating tips for the holiday season, ensuring you savor each moment with joy and balance. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that helps you and your family embrace a fabulous, nutritious lifestyle.

    Connect with Melissa at her website here.

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    32 mins
  • 31. Releasing Mom Guilt and "Shoulds" to Embrace Holistic Parenting with Carli Saber
    Nov 8 2024

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    Have you ever felt lost in the whirlwind of motherhood, trying to balance your identity amidst the chaos of raising children? Carli Saber, a holistic parent consultant, joins us to share her transformative journey. From her days as a Montessori teacher to embracing alternative therapies like Psyche K, Carli offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of parenting. Together, we explore how personal perceptions shape our interactions with children and parallel societal events like elections, urging mothers to redefine their parenting style and reclaim their sense of self.

    Navigating the path to independence for your child is complex, and Carli sheds light on this delicate journey. We talk about the pressures parents face to push their children towards milestones, like summer camp, and the potential fallout from rushing this natural progression. Carli's personal stories and experiences emphasize the multifaceted nature of independence, advocating for trust in each child's unique timeline. By supporting their readiness and allowing them to explore self-reliance at their own pace, children can develop a strong sense of themselves without feeling inadequate.

    We also highlight the critical role of self-care for mothers, underscoring how their well-being can positively impact the entire family. Through joyful rituals and addressing personal anxieties, we remind listeners that small moments of self-care are crucial for fostering a nurturing and balanced family environment.

    Connect with Carli here.

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    39 mins
  • 30. Music Therapy's Impact on Neurodivergent Children and Their Families with Samantha Foote
    Nov 1 2024

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    Unlock the transformative power of music therapy in parenting with our special guest, Samantha Foote, a talented and passionate music therapist. Samantha shares her remarkable insights into how music therapy fosters communication and social skills in children, particularly those with autism, ADHD, and Down syndrome. Listen to heartwarming stories about children finding their voices and making incredible progress, along with real-life examples such as the inspiring recovery of Gabby Giffords. The episode reveals the profound impact music can have in creating new neural pathways and opening doors to better communication.

    Parents of neurodivergent children, this episode is for you. We talk about practical ways to integrate music into daily routines, creating supportive environments that cater to sensory needs without overwhelm. Samantha highlights programs like "Music Together" and discusses how they can help improve social, communication, and motor skills at your child's own pace. We also address the initial feelings of being overwhelmed after a diagnosis and stress the importance of community support and positive parenting strategies tailored to your child's unique needs.

    Get inspired by the incredible story of Dr. Temple Grandin and learn how early intervention can significantly alter the trajectory of a child's life. We explore key resources, from Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) to programs like the Katie Beckett waiver, that can support your journey. The conversation also touches on the emotional and logistical challenges parents face, offering self-care strategies and emphasizing the importance of support systems. Join us in spreading the joy and inspiration from this episode, and find out how a strong community can empower you to live a more fulfilled, joyful life.

    Get Samantha's help Parenting with Confidence by clicking here.
    Connect with Samantha at everybrainisdifferent.com.

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    34 mins
  • 29. 5 Tips for Talking to Your Kids About Politics and the Election
    Oct 25 2024

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    Ever wondered how to make politics less intimidating and more engaging for your kids? Join me, Elizabeth Hambleton, as I transform daunting political discussions into approachable and meaningful conversations. We'll explore practical tips that empower parents to create a respectful dialogue with their children about politics and government. By sharing strategies such as discussing political topics with your partner first and encouraging children to lead with their questions, we aim to help you model respectful listening and understanding. This episode is all about turning what might feel like an overwhelming task into an opportunity for connection and learning.

    Through our journey together, you'll discover the importance of honesty and how to use your children's curiosity as teachable moments. We'll navigate topics like the Electoral College with age-appropriate discussions and the power of researching answers together. By focusing on tangible experiences like voting, we illustrate the real responsibilities of citizenship and the importance of diverse opinions and compromise in democracy. Listen as we inspire you to embrace creativity and style in motherhood, reclaiming joy in everyday life while preparing your children to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.

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    12 mins
  • 28. Halloween Book Haul: Spooky Book Recommendations for the Whole Family
    Oct 18 2024

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    Uncover a world of enchanting Halloween tales that will ignite your child's imagination and foster a love for reading. Join me, Elizabeth Hambleton, as I guide you through a handpicked collection of captivating books, perfect for kids of all ages. Whether you're seeking whimsical board books like "Halloween Mice" for the tiniest of readers or charming stories like "Room on the Broom" and "Happy Halloween, Curious George" for early learners, there's something magical awaiting in every page. Ideal for parents eager to break the screen-time cycle, these titles promise both fun and a sprinkle of seasonal charm.

    Prepare for bedtime with not-too-spooky storybook recommendations that promise sweet dreams and cherished memories. From the delightful nocturnal adventures in "All Right, Go to Sleep, Little Creep" to the unforgettable rhythm of "The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything," these tales captivate and entertain. Discover hidden gems like "Gustavo the Shy Ghost," whose stunning illustrations will add a visual treat to your collection. As our journey wraps up, I extend an invitation to embrace joy and inspiration, reminding you to spread a little extra sparkle and connect with our Never Too Festive community. Let's make this Halloween season an unforgettable reading adventure!

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    22 mins
  • 27. Finding Strength and Hope Throughout Infertility and Adoption with Brandie Thomas
    Oct 11 2024

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    Grab "Restore My Soul: Stories of Redemption, Deliverance, and Hope" on Amazon by clicking here.

    What happens when the journey to motherhood takes an unexpected turn? Join me, Elizabeth Hambleton, as I sit down with Brandie, who bravely shares her story of embracing adoption after battling infertility. We uncover the heart behind her decision to contribute to "Restore My Soul," an anthology filled with stories of hope and redemption. Through her candid revelations, Brandie offers invaluable insights on the emotional landscape of adoption and the unique support required for anyone navigating this tumultuous path.

    Brandie's story is a testament to the transformative power of faith and resilience. Together, we explore the spiritual journey that accompanied her adoption process, highlighting a deepened relationship with God amidst the emotional hurdles. We also delve into how a life-changing diagnosis during pregnancy reshaped my own views on motherhood, instilling a profound appreciation for time and cherished relationships. This conversation reveals how these challenges can redefine faith, perspectives, and the very essence of parenting.

    Motherhood is a complex tapestry, especially when woven with the threads of adoption. Our dialogue offers encouragement and practical insights for anyone facing similar challenges, celebrating the resilience and strength found in shared stories of motherhood.

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    36 mins
  • 26. Time Management for Moms: Easy Sanity-Saving Tips You Can Implement Today with Jill Wright
    Oct 4 2024

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    Unlock the secrets to mastering back-to-school chaos with the brilliant Jill Wright, a seasoned time management strategist. Jill's journey from hospitality to becoming a time management coach offers invaluable insights into regaining control of your busy life. Discover her "supermom type" quiz that helps tailor time and energy management strategies to your unique personality. We'll explore the crucial role of mindset and adaptability, especially highlighted by the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Meet four fascinating mom archetypes that shape decision-making and behavior patterns: the hesitant decision-maker, the multifaceted "squirrel," the selfless giver, and the high performer. Each type requires tailored habits and routines for effective time management. Through engaging discussions, we uncover how these archetypes impact daily life and offer personalized strategies to help you stay organized and focused. Practical advice paired with real-life examples will empower you to identify your own archetype and apply these insights for a smoother back-to-school transition.

    Self-care is not just a buzzword but a necessity for overwhelmed moms. We'll talk about communal language, effective communication, and the ripple effect of emotions within families. Learn how setting aside dedicated self-care time and using tools like weekly family meetings can bring harmony and efficiency to your household. By prioritizing self-care and clear communication, you'll set positive examples for your children, ensuring a more balanced and joyful holiday season. Join us for an episode packed with actionable strategies, heartfelt stories, and a touch of humor to make managing motherhood less overwhelming and more rewarding.

    Connect with Jill: her website
    Grab a ticket to her upcoming Moms Matter Summit.

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    49 mins