In this inspiring episode of The Running Wine Mom podcast, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with Maddy Fero, founder and CEO of Little Rad Things, a kids' apparel brand rooted in confidence, empowerment, and adventure.

Maddy shares her honest and relatable journey—from sewing her first pieces during the pandemic to building a brand that empowers the next generation of rad humans. She opens up about the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, the values she instills in her children, and the realities behind growing a business from scratch.

You'll hear about:

• How frustration with boys' fashion sparked the idea for Little Rad Things
• What it really takes to balance CEO life and motherhood
• Lessons learned from the hardest moments of entrepreneurship
• Staying authentic while growing a brand in a competitive industry
• The meaning behind “raising rad humans”
• Why patience, persistence, and a lot of grit are non-negotiables

Plus, Maddy shares behind-the-scenes stories—including a few pinch-me moments and her tips for recharging when life gets overwhelming. Whether you're a mom, an entrepreneur, or dreaming of starting your own venture, this conversation will leave you inspired to embrace the chaos and keep chasing your dreams.

Thank you to this week's sponsor! Struggling with your child’s sleep? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either. Mariah Martin is a certified sleep coach who helps parents get real rest with gentle, proven methods. No crying-it-out. No stress. Just a clear plan and better nights ahead. Learn more or book a free discovery call at MariahMartinSleepConsultant.com.

✨ Connect with Maddy and Little Rad Things:
Website: https://littleradthings.com/
Instagram: @thelittleradthings

✨ Follow Samantha:
Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who could use a little inspiration today. 🍷🎧

Author Annabel Monaghan is back for her third visit to The Running Wine Mom, and this time she’s bringing the heart, the humor, and the Pop-Tarts. Host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with Annabel to talk about her newest novel, It’s a Love Story—a sharp, funny, and hopeful story about career, reinvention, and romance after reality sets in.

Together, they unpack the delicate dance between ambition and vulnerability, the emotional blueprint left by our mothers, and why sometimes, success looks like putting on the red dress and showing up—even if it’s just for yourself. Annabel opens up about her writing rituals, navigating creative self-doubt, and the unexpected tenderness behind every good laugh.

If you’ve ever believed in second acts, soft landings, or the power of a well-timed snack, this one’s for you.

🎙️ This episode of The Running Wine Mom is brought to you by Fresh Works Holme Circle! Whether you're craving a crisp, fresh salad, a stacked hoagie, or a warm panini that hits the spot—Fresh Works has it all. Locally owned, always made to order, and packed with flavor, it’s your new go-to in Northeast Philly. Order online at freshworksholme.com and taste the fresh difference today!

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📚 Grab the Book:
It’s a Love Story – Annabel Monaghan

📲 Follow Annabel:
Instagram: @annabelmonaghan
Website: annabelmonaghan.com

🍷 Follow Samantha / The Running Wine Mom:
Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

In this thought-provoking episode, host Samantha Cieslinski talks with Dr. Ellen Langer, Harvard psychologist and pioneer of mindfulness research, about the ideas behind her newest book, The Mindful Body.

Dr. Langer redefines mindfulness as the simple act of noticing. She explains how our thoughts, beliefs, and even the language we use can directly impact our physical health. The conversation explores how imagination can influence biology, how labels like “prediabetic” affect outcomes, and how choice and control can reduce stress in measurable ways.

Samantha and Dr. Langer also discuss the pressure to make the “right” decisions, especially in motherhood, and how questioning rigid rules can open the door to more freedom. They unpack why uncertainty can be a strength, how behavior always makes sense in context, and what it means to live more fully in the present.

Whether you’re a parent, a health skeptic, or someone trying to live with more clarity, this episode offers real insight into how awareness can shift the way you move through the world.

Connect with Dr. Ellen Langer

Website: ellenlanger.me
Books: The Mindful Body and more
Instagram: @ellenjlanger

Connect with Samantha / The Running Wine Mom

Website: therunningwinemom.com
Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who could use a fresh way of thinking about health, parenting, or presence.