This week on From 9 to Mom, we're talking Halloween costumes, pumpkin carving, school spirit weeks, and the never-ending mental load of keeping an entire family on schedule. Catie is convinced a digital family calendar will solve all her problems, Danielle is crafting a very specific candy costume, and both of us are just trying to make it through the week without forgetting something.

We're also getting into trick-or-treating traditions, stealing our kids' Halloween candy, bribing them with M&Ms, the latest toy obsessions, and the questionable parenting tactics we're pretty sure will come up in therapy someday.

Because sometimes the real haunted house is just your own home with two kids, 47 things on the calendar, and a pile of laundry you haven't touched.

Just two working moms trying to make childhood magical while barely keeping our own lives together.

In This Episode:

• Halloween traditions and the chaos of parenting during the holidays
• The mental load of motherhood, school schedules, and family calendars
• Costume meltdowns and making Halloween magical
• Trick-or-treating, Halloween candy, and bribing our children
• Raising independent kids (or at least getting them to put their shoes away)
• The parenting moments that will probably cost us in therapy

Episode Chapters:

00:00 | Halloween Is Here

03:10 | The Mental Load Is Loading

08:48 | Costume Meltdowns

12:34 | Trick-or-Treating Then vs. Now

15:15 | Preschool Friends & First Kisses

19:37 | The Great Halloween Candy Debate

23:17 | Bribery Is Our Parenting Style

26:11 | Our Lives Are Actual Horror Movies

28:01 | The Toy Obsession Is Getting Expensive

30:39 | Future Therapy Bills

Whether you're a working mom, a stay-at-home mom, or just a parent running on caffeine and calendar reminders, this one's for you.

Follow From 9 to Mom for more honest, unfiltered conversations about working motherhood, parenting, relationships, and everything in between.

This week on From 9 to Mom, we're sharing the story behind our biggest career move yet: officially going all in on our own business, Digital Wave Media Solutions!

After years of working together, building careers, raising kids, and interviewing inspiring women entrepreneurs on the podcast, we finally decided to bet on ourselves (and each other).

But becoming full-time business owners while raising young kids comes with a whole new set of challenges. We're talking about redefining success after motherhood, navigating mom guilt, finding flexibility without feeling guilty about it, and figuring out what work-life balance actually looks like when you're the boss.

We're also getting into the realities of starting a business with your best friend, the pressure of being responsible for your own income, and why having a business partner might be the closest thing to a second marriage.

And because we can't stay on topic, we somehow end up discussing synchronized periods, spirituality, possible alien DNA, and the Jonas Brothers. Obviously.

Whether you're a working mom dreaming of starting your own business, a woman navigating a career transition, or just trying to balance motherhood, ambition, and your personal life, this one's for you.

Two working moms, one business, and absolutely no guarantees.

00:00 | Our Big Announcement: Digital Wave Media Solutions
03:24 | Work Wives, Business Partners & Basically Being Married
04:49 | How Working Moms Inspired Our Entrepreneurial Journey
07:04 | How From 9 to Mom Started It All
09:03 | Women-Owned Businesses & Supporting Female Entrepreneurs
10:28 | Redefining Success, Motherhood & Career Goals
12:12 | The Reality of Working for Yourself
14:18 | Mom Guilt, Flexibility & Work-Life Balance
16:11 | Taking Risks & Betting on Each Other
18:40 | Synchronized Periods & Business Partner Conversations
19:34 | Spirituality, Alien DNA & Unexpected Tangents
24:33 | What We're Building with Digital Wave Media Solutions
28:39 | The Emotional Roller Coaster of Entrepreneurship
31:35 | What's Next for From 9 to Mom?

From 9 to Mom is a podcast for working moms navigating careers, motherhood, entrepreneurship, parenting, and everything in between.

Hosted by Catie and Danielle, we share real conversations about working motherhood, career growth, mom guilt, work-life balance, women in business, and the beautiful chaos of raising kids while chasing big goals.

Follow along on Instagram @from9tomom for more working mom humor, podcast updates, and behind-the-scenes moments.

We're back behind the microphones, and let's just say there's a LOT to catch up on! Between raising kids, navigating career changes, juggling work-life balance, and surviving the everyday chaos of being working moms, life has been moving FAST.

This week on From 9 to Mom, Catie and Danielle are catching up on everything that's happened lately. We're talking kindergarten transitions, parenting struggles, bedtime battles, sticker charts, mom guilt, and all those little moments that make motherhood both hilarious and exhausting.

Of course, we also find time to discuss our latest concert obsessions, Dancing with the Stars, chaotic work travel, and the reality of trying to maintain a social life while balancing careers, kids, and everything in between.

And somewhere in the middle of all that? We have a pretty BIG announcement. You'll have to tune in to hear what we've been keeping to ourselves!

Whether you're a full-time working mom, a mom navigating career changes, a business owner, or just trying to figure out how to balance motherhood and your own identity, this episode is for you.

No guests. No agenda. Just two working moms talking about real life, parenting, careers, and everything that happens between the 9 to 5 and bedtime.

🎧 EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 | We're Back! Life Updates & Working Mom Chaos
01:25 | Kindergarten, School Transitions & Parenting Milestones
06:00 | Jonas Brothers, K-Pop & Concert Obsessions
11:19 | Parenting Struggles, Eye Patches & Bribery
14:43 | Sticker Charts, Homework & Raising Kids
17:28 | Personality Tests, Motherhood & Identity
19:34 | Dancing with the Stars & Reality TV
24:26 | Bedtime Battles, Mom Guilt & Bunk Beds
27:14 | Our BIG Announcement & What's Next
31:16 | Work Travel, Career Life & Airport Chaos
35:08 | Adulting, Phone Bills & Business Write-Offs
38:08 | What's Next for From 9 to Mom?

We dig into why our strengths can quietly become identities that trap us, the "estuaries" theory of confidence (and why you need more than one), why guilt shows up the moment we try to rest, and how to model self-care for our kids instead of just preaching it. If you've ever felt like your life looks amazing on paper but you're running on empty, this one's for you.

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & meet Jordyn
00:51 – Life at 24 weeks pregnant & planning overwhelm
04:21 – Jordyn's path to founding Mosaic Therapy
08:01 – Why "having it all together" hides what's underneath
09:40 – When your strengths become your identity
13:06 – The "estuaries" theory of confidence
16:48 – Modeling rest instead of just preaching it
21:47 – Where mom guilt actually comes from
27:44 – Where to start when you're at your limit
30:31 – Productivity vs. joy
32:02 – How becoming a mom is already changing her practice
38:01 – Where to find Jordyn & Mosaic Therapy

🌐 mosaictherapymiami.com
📱 Follow along: @mosaic.therapy on Instagram

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & meet Jamie Kolnick
00:55 – Life with three kids & sleepaway camp season
04:44 – Jamie's path from actress to children's entertainment CEO
06:00 – Losing her brother, and later both parents
12:03 – Why she still makes time to play
13:12 – Building Jam with Jamie from solo performer to 100+ team
18:23 – Doing parties nine months pregnant (the froyo shop story)
27:23 – Managing the business side vs. the creative side
28:01 – Burnout, delegation & becoming a real CEO
29:01 – Autoimmune disorders & the postpartum hormone connection
31:18 – Finding her mom community through the Peanut app
37:59 – The "shit you can't make up" story (a bath bomb snail)

🌐 Learn more: https://jamwithjamie.com/
📱 Follow along: @jamwithjamie on Instagram

Dr. Beth breaks down what the pelvic floor actually does, why Kegels aren't the whole story, how C-section vs. vaginal delivery affects recovery differently, and why she believes every pregnant woman should see a pelvic floor therapist not just the ones already struggling. We also get into perimenopause, prolapse, and even pelvic floor issues in men.

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & meet Dr. Beth Guarin
03:57 – Her path into pelvic floor therapy
06:25 – What the pelvic floor actually does
10:13 – Is your postpartum pain normal or not?
16:00 – When to start pelvic floor therapy
21:46 – Inside a first appointment
27:07 – C-section vs. vaginal recovery
34:20 – Dr. Beth's #1 piece of advice for moms

🌐 vivacorept.com
📱 Follow along: @vivacore.pt on Instagram

We get real about the fine line between supporting our kids and accommodating their anxiety into a bigger problem, how to tell anxiety apart from ADHD or OCD, why "overprotective parenting" might be creating kids who can't handle discomfort, and why burnout hits so much harder now that we're never truly "off the clock." Dr. Anne also gets vulnerable about losing her patience, tapping out, and practicing what she preaches (or not).

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & meet Dr. Ann Josephson
01:16 – Life with a 4.5 and 2.5 year old (potty training included)
02:54 – Dr. Ann's path from special ed teacher to child psychologist
05:08 – Early anxiety red flags parents miss
07:58 – ADHD vs. anxiety vs. OCD — why it's so hard to tell apart
13:11 – When should a parent seek extra support?
16:08 – Inside PCIT & SPACE therapy protocols
20:15 – Overprotective parenting: are we raising incapable kids?
24:06 – Natural consequences vs. preventing every injury
25:15 – Anxious kids often mean anxious parents
27:07 – "Tapping out" and staying a united parenting front
31:59 – Why doing more feels like doing less
39:44 – Simple ways to reduce daily overwhelm
42:32 – Dr. Ann on ignoring her own advice sometimes
47:15 – When it's time to get professional help
48:55 – Where to find Dr. Ann & Uptown Psychology

📱 Follow along: Uptown Psychology on Instagram
🌐 uptownpsychologyny.com

Georgia discovered this concept while living in the UK, where matching expecting couples by due date and zip code is basically a rite of passage. Now she and Monica (a registered dietitian) are bringing it to Chicago and Miami  pairing 8-12 couples going through pregnancy at the same time with real nurses and nurse practitioners, so families build their village before the chaos of a newborn hits.

We talk clinician-led education vs. Dr. TikTok, why partner inclusion matters, the loneliness epidemic among new parents, and what it's really like building a venture-backed startup while raising toddlers.

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back to From 9 to Mom
01:42 – Georgia's UK story & discovering the prenatal social club model
05:23 – Bringing the concept to the US & meeting Monica
09:00 – How Monica got pulled in (and never let go)
12:58 – What families were missing the research behind the curriculum
15:19 – Why clinician-led matters more than doulas or influencers
20:09 – How matching & the program actually works
23:44 – Why partner inclusion is core to the model
25:34 – Scaling a business while raising toddlers
31:57 – The hardest parts of entrepreneurial motherhood
38:22 – What's next: Miami launch, virtual cohorts & new cities
41:26 – Final thoughts + where to find them

💛 Learn more or find a group near you: https://expectingtogether.com/
📱 Follow Expecting Together on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expecting.together/

Shop the hats at localssocialclub.com and use code F9TM for 20% off. Follow along @localssocialclub.

Chapters:
00:00 – Intro & Welcome
01:50 – Mom Life Chaos: Kids & Craziness
06:07 – The Origin Story: From a Text to a Business
13:45 – Splitting Roles as Business Partners
15:20 – Finding a Manufacturer & Sampling Mishaps
25:37 – Balancing Corporate Jobs with LSC
32:12 – Designing Hats with Their Graphic Designer
34:41 – What's Next: Custom Hats & New Markets

This month's episode is brought to you by Social Med Consultants — a mom-owned social media marketing team helping medical and aesthetic practices grow with strategy that actually gets results. Check them out at socialmedconsultants.com and mention From 9 to Mom for a free marketing audit.

🎧 Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & sponsor shoutout
00:53 – Danielle's 36-hour Toronto trip & K-pop freebie obsession
02:52 – Back to school updates & Love Island: Elementary Edition
05:18 – Kindergarten bus orientation (starring Spencer the robot bus)
09:10 – Cal's "terror stage" & the no-nap struggle
09:48 – Skeeter Syndrome — what it is & how to deal
12:39 – Mom guilt & who takes the kids to the doctor
16:23 – Letting kids walk to school (and residual parent trauma)
17:16 – Spirit Week outfit chaos + the pajama day hack
21:15 – Last weeks of summer plans & Labor Day trips
24:03 – Picking your non-negotiables as a working parent
25:03 – Daisy's emotional support skeleton & "another baby" talk
26:22 – Screen time wins: Bluey & Salish teaching real lessons
29:56 – The vote: should Catie see the Jonas Brothers in Charlotte?

They cover why "normal" lab ranges are basically the participation trophy of medicine, the four minerals every depleted mom needs (RIP your magnesium), the wild concept of estrogen dominance, and the bombshell that period-on-birth-control isn't actually a period (Danielle needed a minute to recover from this one). Plus: hair tests, cervical mucus check-ins nobody asked for but everyone needed, and why keto might be quietly wrecking your hormones. Bring tissues, bring snacks, and maybe bring your own mineral drink.

Find Vanda on Instagram @wellness.with.vanda and at wellnesswithvanda.com for her free minerals & fertility guide.

Chapters
00:00 – Welcome + meet Vanda (and her beautiful chaos of four kids)
02:00 – How Vanda went from nurse to functional medicine convert
04:40 – What is functional medicine, actually? (the bucket analogy)
05:45 – Why "normal" labs can still mean you feel awful
09:15 – Postpartum symptoms nobody warns you about
14:40 – The 4 minerals every mom needs to know
15:25 – Estrogen dominance, explained without the jargon
17:35 – How to actually get your hormones tested
20:05 – Cycle tracking apps that don't suck
26:00 – HTMA testing (yes, they clip your hair)
29:20 – Fertility work vs. just wanting normal periods
34:20 – The birth control "period" myth that broke Danielle's brain
37:15 – Trends Vanda wishes would die (looking at you, keto)
38:15 – Where to find Vanda

In this episode of From 9 to Mom, working moms Danielle and Catie get real about the whirlwind of back-to-school season: strep throat within the first week, an epic band-aid shortage, and the emotional gut-punch of a kid starting kindergarten for the first time. They swap practical back-to-school and kindergarten prep tips for moms, share the story of a 7-year-old's first "breakup," and give an honest update on toddler eye patching for lazy eye (amblyopia).

The conversation turns into real talk about mental load and burnout for working mothers — and an attempt to "romanticize your everyday" as moms, from Starbucks runs to chaotic family dinners.

They also dig into potty training struggles, toddler bathroom chaos, and a genius home-organization hack using ChatGPT for decluttering and interior design.

If you're a working mom juggling a 9-to-5, a side hustle, and the beautiful mess of raising little kids, this episode is your permission slip to laugh at the chaos with us.

This episode was brought to you by Social Med Consultants .

a mom-owned social media marketing agency helping medical and aesthetic practices grow with strategy that gets real results — from social strategy and branding to top-tier filming and photography. Mention "From 9 to Mom" for a free marketing audit.

Katie, mom of three and founder of August & Ivy, sits down with Catie and Danielle to spill literally everything.

She takes us behind the scenes of building a product from scratch — patents, tech packs, factories that ghost you, and why "bamboo fabric" is not the eco win you think it is. Zero industry background, all figured out along the way.

But this isn't just a business episode. Katie gets real about developing severe preeclampsia postpartum, leaning hard on her village while juggling three kids and two full-time jobs, and why she believes every mom with an idea should just take the first step already.

Total self-starter energy, and we are here for it.

Want to try the Ivy Go bag for yourself? Use code 92MOM20 for $20 off.

Follow along with August & Ivy:

Website

Instagram

TikTok

They talk through the backpack debate (Spidey backpack or big kid plane backpack, does it fit a binder), the never ending list of school supplies and spirit week swag, and why meet the teacher gifts have officially spiraled out of control. Danielle shares her plan to survive Colton's second grade shopping list including a very expensive Messi jersey situation, while Catie preps for kindergarten and preschool at the same time and drops a genius Kohl's Cash hack you need to hear.

They also get a little nostalgic, swapping stories about their own back to school shopping memories growing up, and get real about that weird mix of excitement and sadness that comes with summer ending. Plus some very funny camp stories from the kids that you don't want to miss.

Chapters:

00:00 Danielle and Catie catch up from two different houses
01:06 Counting down to the first day of school
02:23 School supply lists, spirit week, and meet the teacher gifts
05:10 The backpack debate: Spidey backpack vs a new big kid backpack
09:57 Target school supply obsession and the girls section jealousy
11:16 Back to school shopping memories from their own childhoods
17:30 The Kohl's Cash hack you need to know
20:42 Kindergarten prep, the bus, and public school talk
21:26 Funny camp stories that had them laughing

We talk about what Hashimoto's really is, why so many moms are getting diagnosed and nobody's really explaining why, and what to actually ask your doctor so you stop getting the "let's just wait and see" treatment. Inna also shares her own wild diagnosis story, from unexplained symptoms on Wall Street to finally getting answers. If you've ever felt dismissed, tired for no reason, or like something is just off, this episode is for you.

Connect with Inna on Instagram

Get the FREE Thyroid Audit

Check out more of Inna's thyroid, hashimoto's and hypothyroidism programs over on her website, and use code 9TOMOM for 10% off!

Chapters

01:04 Mom life chaos: strep, PANDAS, and autoimmune stuff in kids
06:43 What Hashimoto's actually is (and why doctors miss it)
12:49 Inna's story: mystery symptoms and feeling dismissed
18:14 Getting diagnosed, told to wait, then finding real answers
24:33 Why so many moms are getting diagnosed right now
30:10 The full thyroid panel you should be asking for
38:31 Stress, people pleasing, and advocating for yourself at the doctor

They talk about what a "90's summer" really means for today's overscheduled, overtracked, overwatched kids, plus the ongoing bribery campaign to survive one more day before Jack gets his pet fish. Spoiler: the fish will fight the mirror and lose, and everyone's doing a better job than they think.

Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome back & surviving the crying drop-offs
04:25 – Toddler chaos vs. the pressure to fill every summer minute
05:36 – Ditching the camp spreadsheet for a happier, freer kid
08:44 – First-kid hovering vs. second-kid feral independence
19:07 – Underwear pajamas and the death of matching sets
21:19 – 90's summer memories: capture the flag, sleepovers & disappearing into the bushes
34:17 – Monkey bar blisters, fish bribery, and the incoming beta fish duo

We cover when to tell your employer you're pregnant, the difference between job protection and paid benefits (they are NOT the same thing), why HR usually doesn't know as much as you think, what dads and partners are actually entitled to, and why "maternity leave" isn't even a real legal term. Plus: should you trust ChatGPT with this stuff? Akiko gives it to us straight.

If you're pregnant, planning to be, or just want to know your rights before you need them, this one's required listening.

Find Akiko with Maternity 411 on Instagram: @maternityleave411 or at maternity411.com

Chapters:

00:00 – Cold open (Danielle can't get through the intro)
00:53 – Meet Akiko Thayer, founder of Maternity Leave 411
01:15 – Quick catch-up: kids, ages, and summer camp chaos
04:50 – Akiko's origin story: how a botched leave turned into a business
07:53 – Why maternity leave is so confusing (FMLA + state laws + employer policy)
09:37 – Why HR isn't always the expert you think they are
11:01 – Does Akiko work with companies, not just individuals?
13:32 – When to tell your employer you're pregnant (and why earlier can help)
16:52 – Short-term disability vs. paid family leave, decoded
21:53 – The #1 mistake: confusing job protection with getting paid
25:21 – How employer pay and state benefits work together
26:54 – Paternity leave for dads and partners is underused — here's why it matters
29:02 – Catie and Danielle share how much leave their partners actually took
33:04 – How to prep for leave: get it in writing
35:12 – Bed rest and how it eats into your FMLA weeks
38:11 – The legal terms you should actually use (hint: "maternity leave" isn't one)
40:03 – Akiko's #1 piece of advice: research, research, research
41:24 – Should you use ChatGPT for leave questions? Where it helps and where it fails
44:03 – Where to find Akiko and get her help

Danielle recaps her 20-years-strong girls' trip to Islamorada with her "LST" crew — boat days, a stray dog named Murph, and the now-infamous "Dick Pick David." The two dig into what it actually takes to keep friendships alive through decades of life changes — breakups, weddings, kids, moves — and why showing up for each other (not proximity) is what makes it stick.

Then Catie gets real about a hard week: Jack's tearful camp drop-offs, the mental load of the transition from meetings to mom-mode, and finding relief in a Diet Coke and a good cry with a friend. Plus: Calvin gives up his binky (unprompted), Catie's new gig as an assistant soccer coach tests her control issues, and both moms share how they're squeezing the most out of summer before school prep creeps back in.

A lighter, more personal one this week — grab your coffee (or Diet Coke) and join the village.

This week we get into what kindergarten readiness actually means (spoiler: it's emotional regulation, independence, and grit, not reading at five), why preschool doesn't automatically guarantee a smooth transition, and how to survive the drop-off meltdown without crying in your car. Brittany breaks down routines vs. "rhythms," the kissing-hand goodbye ritual, prepping kids for the bus, and her 5-minute night-before reset that working moms swear by. Plus: the one thing she wants every guilt-ridden millennial perfectionist mom to stop stressing about.

Real talk, real chaos (melting popsicles included), and a roadmap to send your kid in confident.

Find Brittany on Instagram @brightstartsco and at brightstartsco.com.

🎁 Listener offer: Use code 9TOMOM20 for $20 off her Ready Set Learn course. And through July 2, the Calm Mornings Toolkit is bundled free with course purchase.

Danielle is mid-travel chaos, running on zero clean clothes and a dream, while Catie is trying to figure out how to top the Yeti Camino her husband got her for Mother's Day without buying another golf club set. We get into Father's Day gift ideas that actually land, the white button down that had high hopes and let us both down, and why our second kids are simply built different.

Plus — Jack's kindergarten graduation had us emotional, Calvin sat through a five-vial blood draw without blinking, and Danielle's son found out his mom also goes to therapy. Turns out all the cool kids are a little messed up.

Chapters

• 00:00 - We Need a Jingle
• 01:36 - Father's Day Plans & Birthday Party Collisions
• 03:43 - What Dads Actually Want
• 04:08 - DIY Golf Ball Gifts & the Malbon Hat
• 05:20 - The Reciprocal Gift Pressure
• 07:19 - Danielle's Travel Chaos
• 08:21 - Women's Empowerment Events & the "Shrill" Spiral
• 09:35 - The White Button Down That Lied to Us
• 11:10 - Jack's Kindergarten Graduation
• 12:14 - Your 5-Year-Old Is Worried About Your Work Schedule
• 13:37 - Calvin's Blood Draw: Didn't Flinch
• 14:42 - Therapy Is Normal Now
• 15:59 - Love Island vs. Big Brother

Pull up a seat. We're just here to yap.

This week, Catie and Danielle sit down with Nina Spears, founder and CEO of Baby Chick, certified baby planner, birth and postpartum doula, and author of the brand-new The Baby Chick Guide to Positive Pregnancy. With 15+ years of experience supporting 800+ families and attending over 350 births, Nina has seen it all — and she's here to talk about the one thing most moms skip: preparing for becoming a mother.

Nina breaks down why our culture obsesses over baby stuff but ignores the emotional, physical, and relational shifts that hit hardest after delivery. She shares what she wishes every mom knew before coming home from the hospital, how to navigate the identity crisis of returning to work, and why the most capable women often struggle the most.

If you've ever looked at your baby and thought "now what?" — this episode is for you.

📖 Pre-order Nina's book and enter to win over $5,500 in prizes (Halo, Mockingbird, Coterie + more): baby-chick.com/positive-pregnancy-book

Subscribe to Nina's free newsletter and explore all things pregnancy, postpartum, and early motherhood at baby-chick.com

Chapters:

00:00 – Intro & Welcome 01:35 – Nina's Origin Story: How a Childless 23-Year-Old Became a Baby Expert

05:22 – "Baby's Here, Now What?" — How Unprepared Are Moms Really?

07:02 – Why Our Culture Celebrates the Baby But Forgets the Mother

10:50 – The Most Common Thing Moms Wish They Had Prepared For

13:43 – Identity Shifts, Mom Guilt, and Learning to Ask for Help

15:34 – How Baby Chick Was Built (and How Nina Vets What Gets Published)

18:39 – The Information Overload Problem — and How to Find Trustworthy Advice

21:57 – Returning to Work as a Completely Different Person 24:12 – The Emotional Reality of the Fourth Trimester (and Beyond)

27:25 – If You Want a Village, Be a Villager

29:36 – Why the Moms Who Look Like They Have It Together Often Struggle Most

30:48 – The One Thing Nina Wishes Every Mom Knew Before Baby Arrives

33:27 – About the Book + Giveaway Details

Catie's kids are 3 & 4

Danielle's kids are 3 & 7

Let's get into this weeks therapy session.

Catie's three-year-old is basically blind (fine, astigmatisms, but same energy), Calvin showed up to the office in mom's sunglasses watching Peppa Pig during a live meeting, and somehow rainbow glasses are now a hill we're willing to die on. Meanwhile Danielle solo-pilgrimaged to a BTS concert in Vegas, made three new best friends in the parking lot, and is already planning her Stray Kids festival outfit down to the lightstick.

We also solve the great debate: summer bucket list vs. themed activity days, why $590 art camp is a hard no, and how drop-off logistics are genuinely a second full-time job nobody hired us for.

Chaotic. Unfiltered. Basically free therapy.

• 00:00 – Welcome to the Therapy Hour
• 00:48 – Calvin Is Basically Blind & We're Spiraling
• 07:40 – Peppa Pig, Dilated Pupils & a Very Unbothered Toddler
• 11:16 – Colton Failed the Swim Test & We're Actually Fine With It
• 12:25 – Danielle Goes Solo to Vegas (for a K-pop concert, obviously)
• 13:21 – Are We Too Old for Concert Merch? (No.)
• 17:01 – $590 for Art Camp. We Said No.
• 22:04 – Bucket Lists vs. Themed Days: The Summer Planning Debate
• 27:12 – Why Are We Still Dressing Our Kids? They're Four.
• 29:17 – Morning Drop-Off Math Nobody Warned Us About
• 31:26 – Moms Gone Wild (Nick Jonas + Stray Kids, separately)

In this episode, we're joined by personal brand stylist Nina Piccini to talk all things mom fashion — from building a wardrobe that works across every version of your life, to navigating trends without losing yourself, to finally tackling that decision fatigue every time you open your closet.

We also pull back the curtain on our own lookbook experience with Nina — what the process looks like, what surprised us, and what we absolutely loved.

What we cover:

• Why your style actually gets better after kids
• How to build a versatile wardrobe that works from drop-off to boardroom
• Using lookbooks and Pinterest to reduce morning decision fatigue
• How to shop trends without losing your personal style
• The real reason button-downs aren't working for you
• Wardrobe refresh strategies that don't break the bank
• Style myths every mom needs to stop believing

Connect with Nina: https://www.ninapiccini.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nina_piccini

Substack: The Style Brief https://ninapiccini.substack.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Personal Brand Styling

02:48 Nina's Journey to Styling

05:46 The Importance of Wardrobe for Moms

08:51 Creating Lookbooks: The Process

11:46 Incorporating Personal Style

14:20 Overcoming Fashion Fears

17:12 Navigating Trends and Personal Style

21:06 Navigating Fashion Trends

29:35 Wardrobe Refresh Strategies

34:19 Style Myths and Budget Shopping

35:12 Embracing Personal Style as a Mom

We’re joined by Jessica Franklin, busy mom, health coach, and host of The Live Lightly Podcast, to break down what actually matters when it comes to plastics, toxins, and low-tox living… without spiraling into fear or throwing out every sippy cup you own tomorrow.

From plastic cutting boards and kids’ lunch gear to hidden plastics in bedding, clothing, and everyday products, Jessica helps us understand where these exposures are really coming from, what the science says about microplastics and hormone disruption, and how moms can make practical swaps without adding another full-time job to the mental load.

We also talk about:
• The truth behind “BPA-free” labels
• Why plastic cutting boards became everyone’s villain origin story
• The hidden plastics most families never think about
• Affordable, realistic swaps that actually make sense
• How to avoid fear-based wellness marketing
• The balance between awareness and overwhelm

If you’ve watched the documentaries, fallen down a TikTok rabbit hole, or stood in Target staring at “eco-friendly” labels wondering what any of it means… this episode is for you.

Because healthy living shouldn’t require a chemistry degree, a full pantry relabel, or losing your sanity in aisle 12. 💛

Sign up for the Microplastics Masterclass here: https://livelightly.myflodesk.com/microplasticmasterclass

Featuring: Jessica Franklin of The Live Lightly Podcast

The conversation covers information overload, motherhood, mental health, trusting professionals, and learning when to listen… and when to let the advice scroll right on by. Plus, the hosts share personal stories about navigating feedback, building trust, and protecting their peace in a world full of opinions.

If you’ve ever felt buried under unsolicited advice, conflicting parenting recommendations, or the pressure to “do it all right,” this episode is your reminder that you know yourself and your family better than anyone else.

✨ Topics Covered:

• How to take advice without taking it personally
• Managing information overload as a mom
• Trusting experts vs. social media opinions
• Parenting advice, professional growth & self-confidence
• Setting boundaries and protecting your mental well-being

⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Advice in Motherhood
02:57 The Challenge of Information Overload
05:39 Finding the Right Sources of Advice
08:50 The Importance of Professional Guidance
11:38 Personal Experiences and Parenting
14:27 Building Trust in Relationships
17:20 Embracing Vulnerability and Growth
20:19 Practicing Receiving Feedback

From the pressure of making the day “perfect” to the reality of May-sember schedules, sports, school events, and trying to enjoy one uninterrupted hot coffee, we’re talking about what moms actually want for Mother’s Day.

We get honest about expectations vs. reality, gift giving fails and wins, mom guilt, and why sometimes the best gift isn’t flowers or jewelry... it’s being acknowledged without having to delegate your own celebration. 😅 We also share the moments and memories that matter most, how motherhood shifts friendships and family dynamics, and why celebrating together can make the chaos feel a little sweeter.

If you’ve ever said “I don’t need anything” while secretly hoping someone planned literally anything... this episode is for you.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Balancing Work and Motherhood
00:19 Celebrating Mother's Day: Reflections and Realities
00:44 Balancing Motherhood and Work: The Ongoing Struggle
00:46 The Chaos of May-Sember
03:42 Expectations vs. Reality on Mother's Day
06:29 Gift Giving and Personal Preferences
09:27 Mom Guilt and Balancing Family Dynamics
12:17 Creating Meaningful Memories
15:08 Celebrating Motherhood Together
18:02 The Importance of Acknowledgment
21:01 Final Thoughts on Mother's Day

Catie and Danielle are getting real about what happened to the lunch break. Remember when it meant leaving the office, grabbing food, maybe sneaking a 5-minute nap in your car? Yeah... those days are gone. Now it's "let me quickly sign the kids up for soccer, reschedule that dentist appointment, and throw in a load of laundry" — and somehow that counts as a break.

This week they dig into how working from home completely rewired the lunch hour, why commuting actually had some unexpected perks for productivity, and how support systems (or the lack of one) make or break your ability to catch your breath mid-day.

Because here's the truth: if you're a working mom, you're not just on your lunch break — you're on everyone's lunch break.

This one's your permission slip to actually eat something and sit down for 12 consecutive minutes. You've earned it.

This Week's Chapters:

• 00:00 The Lunch Break Dilemma
• 06:41 Productivity vs. Personal Time
• 13:37 Balancing Work and Family Responsibilities
• 19:34 Navigating the Modern Work Environment

In this episode, we’re getting real about what it actually looks like to “do it all” and why more moms are deciding… yeah, no thanks. From the evolution of online grocery shopping (because dragging kids through a store deserves hazard pay) to hiring help and reclaiming your time, we’re breaking down the mental load of motherhood and what happens when you finally start letting some of it go.

We talk about the guilt, the judgment, and the very real math behind outsourcing. Because somehow spending money to save your sanity requires a full-blown internal TED Talk. We also get into balancing packed family schedules, meal prep chaos, and how AI is quietly becoming the assistant we didn’t know we needed.

This episode is your permission slip to stop doing everything the hard way. You don’t have to earn your exhaustion.

And if you’ve ever justified a purchase by calculating your hourly rate in your head… welcome, you’re among friends 🤝

Chapters:
00:00 The Shift to Online Grocery Shopping
02:53 Outsourcing for Time Management
05:29 The Value of Hiring Help
08:17 Balancing Family Activities and Responsibilities
11:05 Navigating Food Choices and Meal Prep
14:10 The Role of AI in Parenting
17:00 Normalizing Outsourcing in Motherhood
20:00 Mom Math: Justifying Expenses
22:58 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode of From 9 to Mom, we’re talking all things picky eaters, kids nutrition, and the daily chaos of family mealtime. From navigating sudden food preferences to dealing with food allergies and school lunches, we’re sharing our real-life experiences trying to keep our kids fed without turning dinner into a full-blown battle.

We get into picky eating behaviors, how kids always want what you’re eating (until they don’t), and the struggle of balancing healthy meals with what they’ll actually touch. Plus, we’re sharing practical tips for busy moms on meal prep, finding healthy alternatives, and managing ever-changing food phases.

If you’re dealing with picky eaters, trying to build healthy eating habits, or just looking for realistic parenting tips around food… this episode will make you feel seen.

🎧 Topics we cover: picky eaters, kids nutrition, family meals, food allergies, school lunches, healthy eating habits for kids

From the sensory overload of unsolicited advice during pregnancy to the survival mode of newborn life, we’re diving into the moments that caught us off guard, the mistakes we definitely made, and the lessons we only learned the hard way. We’re talking sleep deprivation fights that “don’t count,” splitting responsibilities, second kid confidence vs. first kid panic, and why literally no one cares if your baby cries in public.

We also get into how our relationship has evolved through it all, the pressure we put on ourselves (hi, potty training 🙃), and the things we’d absolutely do differently if we could go back. Spoiler: you’re never as unprepared as you feel… but also, you kind of are, and that’s normal.

It’s honest, a little chaotic, and exactly what happens when you hit record after bedtime and just start talking.

If you’ve ever thought, “wait… are we doing this right?”—this one’s for you.

We get into the real-life logistics of extracurricular overload, how we decide what’s worth the time (and money), and the systems that have quite literally saved us—yes, we’re looking at you, carpool group chats. You’ll hear our honest takes on balancing work commitments with kids’ sports, navigating when your kid loves something vs. when it’s just…not their thing, and how team sports shape confidence, discipline, and friendships in ways that go far beyond the field.

We’re also sharing practical tips for keeping costs down (hello, secondhand gear), managing summer camps, and making sure your entire life doesn’t revolve around a folding chair on the sidelines… unless you want it to.

Whether you're deep in your sports mom era or just entering the group chat, this episode will make you feel seen—and maybe a little more organized.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Personal Birthday Stories
01:18 Kids' Activities During Work Hours
02:34 Managing Kids' Sports and Extracurriculars
06:06 Strategies for Coordinating Activities and Carpooling
09:39 Dealing with Kids' Preferences and Success in Sports
13:32 Balancing Multiple Kids and Activities
17:32 The Importance of Team Sports and Discipline
21:14 Supporting Kids' Interests and Building Confidence
25:09 Managing Expenses and Gear for Kids' Activities
28:55 The Role of Community and Friendships in Activities
32:51 Talking to Kids About Their Likes and Dislikes
35:32 Conclusion and Final Tips for Working Parents

But beyond the trends, this episode gets real about why hobbies matter. We’re talking mental health, identity outside of motherhood, and the very real challenge of carving out time when your schedule already feels like a game of Tetris on expert mode. Plus, we share how to realistically start—without overcommitting, burning out, or buying $300 worth of supplies for a hobby you’ll abandon in 6 days (we’ve all been there).

If you’ve been feeling like you’ve lost your “thing” or you’re ready to find something that’s just yours again—this episode is your sign.

Because you’re not just a mom… you’re a mom with hobbies now 💁‍♀️

This episode is brought to you by Locals Social Club. Use code FNTM at checkout for 20% off!

In this episode, Missy breaks down what sleep training actually is (and what it isn’t), the science behind how kids learn to sleep independently, and why good sleep is so important for both kids and parents. We talk about when to start sleep training, how long it typically takes, and the different methods families can use depending on their child’s temperament and their own comfort level.

We also get into the real-life challenges parents face. Think sleep regressions, daycare naps, pacifiers, white noise, transitioning to big kid beds, and those moments when you’re questioning every parenting decision at 2 AM. Missy shares how to build a sleep plan that actually works for your child, plus strategies to stay consistent while still parenting with love and boundaries.

If bedtime at your house feels like a nightly marathon, this episode will leave you with practical tools, reassurance, and a reminder that better sleep really is possible.

You can learn more about Missy and her work at Slumber & Bloom here:
https://slumberandbloom.com/

Chapters

01:11 What is Sleep Training? Definition and Misconceptions 03:25 The Science Behind Sleep Training and Conditioning 06:26 Starting Sleep Training: When and How to Begin 10:04 Duration and Long-term Effects of Sleep Training 14:14 Handling Sleep Regressions and Transitioning Ages 16:35 Tools and Support for Sleep Training (Pacifiers, White Noise)

19:31 Managing Sleep in Daycare and External Environments 23:20 Addressing Common Concerns: Crying, Attachment, and Emotional Well-being

30:32 Transitioning Toddlers to Big Kid Beds and Managing Sleep Challenges

34:25 Behavioral Strategies and Rewards for Sleep and Routine Compliance

41:00 Parenting with Love, Boundaries, and Consistency 44:16 Long-term Sleep Support and Maintaining Healthy Habits

This episode is brought to you by Locals Social Club. Use code FNTM for 20% off your order. https://www.localssocialclub.com/

In this episode of From 9 to Mom, Catie and Danielle sit down with health optimization expert Kyle Napier to talk about the surprisingly powerful role gut health plays in how moms actually feel day to day.

Kyle breaks down the gut in a way that finally makes sense. Think of it like a garden. What you feed it, how stressed you are, and even how you were born can all impact the balance of microbes living inside you. And when that balance gets thrown off? Hello low energy, poor sleep, hormone issues, and feeling like you’re dragging yourself through the day.

The conversation dives into how stress and cortisol can literally create tiny holes in the gut lining, why moms are especially vulnerable to gut issues, and how personalized testing like blood work and stool testing can reveal what’s actually going on inside your body. Kyle also shares insight into early microbiome development in kids, the impact of birth methods, and why quick fixes rarely solve the real problem.

If you’ve ever wondered why you’re exhausted even after sleeping, constantly bloated, or just feel “off,” this episode connects a lot of dots.

And here’s a bonus for listeners: Kyle is offering $100 off his health optimization program for From 9 to Mom listeners. Just fill out the contact form on his website and mention F9TM to claim the discount.

You’ll walk away from this episode with a much clearer understanding of how your gut affects everything from sleep to stress to hormones and what you can actually do about it.

Learn more about Kyle & Club Gevity:
Website: https://www.gevityclub.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gevityclub

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gut Health and Motherhood

03:42 The Impact of Motherhood on Gut Health

06:14 Stress, Cortisol, and Gut Health

08:35 Data-Driven Approach to Gut Health

10:53 The Role of Microbiome in Child Development

14:04 The Importance of Birth Method on Microbiome

18:06 Understanding Nutrition's Role in Child Development 22:44 The Connection Between Gut Health and Overall Well-being

26:36 Debunking Quick Fixes: The Ozempic Discussion 28:41 A Holistic Approach to Health Optimization

This episode is brought to you by Locals Social Club. Use code FNTM for 20% off your order. https://www.localssocialclub.com/

From sandy chaos and overpacked suitcases to stroller negotiations and snack bribes at Disney, we’re sharing what worked, what absolutely did not, and how to plan a trip that doesn’t require a small loan. We get into traveling with kids without losing your sanity, managing expectations when everyone is overtired and sunburned, and how to approach Disney in a way that feels magical and financially responsible.

If you’ve ever tried to sip a drink while simultaneously applying sunscreen, answering 47 questions, and calculating Genie+ in your head, this episode is for you. It’s honest, funny, and a reminder that family vacations might not always be relaxing… but they’re definitely memorable. 🌴✨

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Balancing Work and Motherhood

02:58 Family Beach Vacation Experiences

05:40 Challenges of Traveling with Young Children

08:38 Packing Tips for Family Trips

11:22 Food Strategies for Disney Parks

14:16 Memorable Moments at Disney

15:32 Magical Moments at Disney

18:26 Navigating Disney's Challenges

21:40 Planning Your Disney Trip

24:11 Understanding Disney Costs

27:10 Traveling with Kids: Tips and Tricks

29:15 The Minivan Debate

They’re unpacking the modern babysitter saga, from “How much are we paying per hour now?!” to the emotional gymnastics of asking your parents for help without feeling like you owe them your firstborn. Is it cheaper to stay home? Sometimes. Is it worth it to eat dinner while it’s still hot? Also yes.

The girls chat about the going rate for sitters, the difference between family help and hired help, and the unspoken panic that sets in the second you pull out of the driveway. They also get into the big question every parent eventually Googles at 11:47 p.m.: What age can kids stay home alone?

It’s a real-life, slightly chaotic, very relatable conversation about trust, independence, and the fine art of pretending you’re relaxed on date night while secretly checking your phone every six minutes.

Because nothing says “romance” like texting, “Are they asleep yet?” 💁‍♀️

They talk about how our generation looks at age way differently than our parents did, the weird (and sometimes unspoken) tension between stay-at-home moms and working moms, and how COVID basically flipped family life upside down. Careers, kids, ambition, guilt… it’s a lot.

They also get honest about comparison and that little twinge of envy that can pop up no matter which lane you’re in. Because let’s be real, whether you’re at home, at the office, or somewhere in between, we all have moments where we wonder if the other side looks easier.

If you’ve ever questioned your path, redefined what “success” means in this season, or just needed a reminder that we’re all figuring it out as we go… this episode will feel like a group chat you didn’t know you needed.

In this episode, Catie and Danielle dive into the real-life chaos winter throws at working moms. From last-minute school closures to the mental gymnastics of working while parenting at home, they share candid stories, frustrations, and laughs from the trenches. The conversation explores the emotional toll of trying to do it all, why snow days hit differently when you’re a working parent, and how finding small moments of joy and self-care can make the chaos feel a little more manageable.

If you’ve ever stared at a snowstorm wondering how you’re supposed to get anything done today, this one’s for you. ❄️💻👩‍👧‍👦

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to 2026: A New Era

01:04 Letting Go and Focusing on Ourselves

02:37 Redefining Goals and Expectations

04:33 Out with the 'I'll Do It Myself' Mentality

08:43 Aligning Hustle with Self-Worth

12:05 Doing Less, But Purposefully

15:27 Protecting Our Peace and Setting Boundaries

21:05 Navigating Financial Decisions in Relationships

23:48 Manifesting Abundance and Resourcefulness

27:28 Health and Wellness Trends

31:01 Self-Care and Healthcare Awareness

34:16 Embracing Change and New Beginnings

👉 Tune in and get motivated to chase your goals—no matter what season of motherhood you’re in!

Together, they unpack what most parents wish came with a manual:
• How to know when your child is actually ready (spoiler: it’s not about the age on the calendar).
• Why the prep phase matters more than you think.
• The real reason the first week feels like a full-time job.
• What to do about those mysterious nighttime pees.
• How to use positive reinforcement without wandering into bribery territory.

Missy sprinkles in practical, judgment-free advice that makes the whole process feel doable, even for kids who resist change like it’s their personal brand. She also shares playful tools like role-playing and social stories to turn potty training from a power struggle into a gentle adventure.

Whether you’re gearing up for your first attempt or recovering from a false start, this episode will leave you feeling prepared, encouraged, and totally normal for thinking: Why doesn’t anyone talk about how hard this is?

By the end, you’ll walk away with a clearer plan, a calmer mindset, and the comforting reminder that every child hits this milestone in their own time.

Key Takeaways:• Readiness beats age every time• Prep, patience, and parental guidance are the magic trio• Nighttime dryness is a whole different developmental beast• Celebrate wins… without turning them into negotiations• Play and storytelling can ease big feelings

Perfect for parents standing at the edge of the potty-training cliff, wondering whether today is the day.

If you are looking for more information check out Slumber & Bloom's holiday bundle use code PODCAST at checkout for a special offer!

Chapters

00:00 Holiday Chaos and the Magic Maker

02:54 Balancing Responsibilities and Presence

05:42 The Pressure of Holiday Traditions

08:33 Embracing Imperfection in Parenting

11:28 Creating Lasting Memories

14:30 The Role of the Elf on the Shelf

17:21 Navigating the Transition of Childhood Magic

20:15 The Magic of Childhood and Holiday Traditions

23:14 Experiencing Santa: The Joys and Challenges

26:07 Gift Giving: Balancing Expectations and Reality

29:37 Mom's Wish List: Experiences Over Things

35:01 Pop Culture and Holiday Cheer

✅ What you're good at
🚫 What you hate doing
🌟 Your big vision
🎯 And what success actually looks like (spoiler: it’s different for all of us… and that’s okay)

Whether you’re in a pivot, a burnout spiral, or just need to realign with your goals, this one’s your permission slip to pause, reflect, and maybe even laugh a little. Because let’s be honest... success is still kinda TBD. 🙃

We also talk about other big milestones in our kids' lives, including the adventures (and challenges) of teeth brushing and dentist visits. From tantrums to triumphs, it’s a mix of humor and honesty about the little moments that come with growing up. Tune in for laughs, parenting insights, and a few "oh-no" moments we’ve all been through!

As the new usual, book review at the end of the episode!

She takes us through the raw and real emotions of receiving her daughter Shea’s diagnosis, how she navigated the unknown, educated herself, and ultimately found empowerment in advocacy.

We tackle the big questions—the misconceptions, the fears, and the overwhelming flood of opinions that come with parenting a child with Down Syndrome. Julie’s insight is invaluable, whether you're a parent, an ally, or just here to learn.

And of course, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day (March 21st!) 🎉—because Trisomy 21 deserves the love, the awareness, and ALL the joy.

Oh, and did we mention Shea’s superpower is making people smile? 😁💙 You’ll feel it through this episode!

Would you rather…
✂️ Let your toddler cut your hair or their own?
🎧 Listen to Peppa Pig on repeat or commit to a lifetime of SpongeBob?
🚗 Have a full-time chauffeur or a private chef?

We go back and forth with the most mom-life questions ever—from the chaotic to the oddly tempting—and reveal where we’d draw the line (hint: we’re not giving up that chef 👩‍🍳).

Whether you're multitasking or hiding in the pantry for five minutes of peace, this episode is guaranteed to make you laugh and nod along. 🙃

1:39 - Danielle's Girls Trip Recap
6:45 - Catie in Mom Mode
8:47 - $hit you can't make up
12:53 - Good riddence formula for the Fitzgerald's

Whether you're planning your first business trip post-kids or just love a good mom-meets-work story, this one’s for you.

Krista shares her powerful story of how she went from overwhelmed and disconnected, to fulfilled, confident, and fully herself again. We talk about:
✨ What it really means to prioritize yourself👩‍👧‍👦 And why showing up for you is the best thing you can do for your family

Oh—and of course, we round things out with some "Sh*t You Can't Make Up" stories, because #momlife is nothing if not unpredictable.

If you’ve been feeling like a background character in your own life, this episode is your wake-up call (but like, the gentle kind with coffee ☕).

We talk about how we juggle work, parenting, and just trying to survive while battling illness—and of course, keeping our sense of humor along the way! If you’ve ever been knocked down by a cold or flu and still had to keep the world turning, this episode is for you!

We're talking about everything from, FOMO, influencers, shopping in person vs online and how much we give into these kids. They seem to get everything they want!

Of course we'll give a recap of things we purchased, and as of now, no returns yet!

Tune in this week to hear us talk about the marketing behind the deals, and why we are having so much FOMO when we don't shop or miss the deals.

Let us know what you scored this week!

Today we're clocking in to have a convo on what the heck we're doing here. Why is working mom a term, and so much more.

And don't worry, we're sharing the "Shit You Can't Make Up" and this week it really has us worried for when our kids go to school...

Clock in with us.

00:00 Introduction to Motherhood and Expert Insights

02:35 The Reality of Labor and Delivery

19:28 Navigating Postpartum Recovery

24:07 Postpartum Realities and Self-Esteem

26:52 The Importance of Pelvic Floor Therapy

29:32 Navigating Postpartum Expectations

30:38 Hair Removal: Myths and Realities

32:37 Products to Avoid for Vaginal Health

34:26 Understanding Vaginal Health and pH Balance

36:13 Pap Smears and Cervical Health

40:01 Geriatric Pregnancy: Trends and Advice

Be sure to subscribe to get all our updates and listen in every week.

Lauren opens up about her personal journey through motherhood and infertility — and how she turned her story into a mission to support moms at every stage. brooksybox is more than a care package — it’s a way to bring comfort, support, and encouragement to moms who need it most. 💕

To honor this month, we’re also giving away a brooksybox to one of our listeners! Tune in, share with a friend who needs this conversation, and join us in bringing awareness and support to moms everywhere.

We’re back with Part 2 of Off the Clock, On the Tea, bringing you all the latest hot topics so you can contribute to actual adult conversations (without having to scroll endlessly on your phone). 📲👀
🔥 Today’s tea includes:
🚀 SpaceX Returns – Science? We’re into it.
🧡 Blippi after dark - yes or no?
📖 Colleen Hoover's Latest Internet Drama – CoHo fans, let's discuss.
💍 Love is Blind Recap – The cringe, the love, the chaos.
🎙️ Ellen Pompeo on Call Her Daddy – Meredith Grey spilling real-life tea.
🌹 The Bachelor Recap – Who’s staying? Who’s crying? Who’s actually there for the right reasons?
🛍️ Forever 21 Bankruptcy – RIP to our teenage wardrobes.
So grab your coffee (or wine, no judgment) and stay in the know with us! 🎧✨

Join us as Christine shares her insights on balancing the chaos of family life with the intricacies of financial planning. We dive into crucial topics such as:

• Education Funds: How to effectively save and plan for your children’s education.

• Estate Planning: Understanding the importance of wills, trusts, and ensuring your family’s future is secure.

• Family Financial Management: Tips for managing household finances amidst a busy schedule.

Christine’s practical advice and personal experiences offer valuable guidance for working moms looking to navigate their financial futures while balancing the demands of motherhood. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that blends financial wisdom with the realities of family life.

Tune in for actionable tips and strategies that will help you plan for your family’s financial success!

Connect with Christine Here!

Tags: parenting podcast, toddler life, mom humor, baby mom life, events with kids, when to leave kids at home, funny mom podcast, motherhood real talk, working moms, from 9 to mom

Together, we dive into:
✨ The Second Phase of Motherhood – teens and beyond, how mom-guilt shifts, and what we wish we knew earlier.✨ Self-Discovery & Personal Growth – finding your identity outside of motherhood and business.✨ Why We Podcast – how these conversations have become our therapy, the support systems we’ve built, and why sharing matters.

And this is just Part 1! 🎙️ Head over to Fearless and Focused for Part 2 of our conversation TOMORROW 9/5 👉 Listen here

6:43 - Preparing for L&D
12:31 - Financial Planning for Maternity Leave
19:15 - Exploring Childcare Options
33:10 - Grandparents

From there, we unpack our own “Dr. Becky–inspired” parenting styles, how we try (and fail) to stay regulated, and why gentle parenting sometimes meets “real-life mom chaos.”

Most importantly, we get honest about comparison culture—how easy it is to compare yourself to the “perfect mom,” the “perfect partner,” or the version of yourself you think you should be. We talk about what comparison quietly steals from us, how it fuels shame and burnout, and how to get grounded again when that spiral starts.

If you’re a working mom trying to juggle careers, kids, expectations, and that never-ending bedtime routine, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air (and maybe a free therapy session).

This week we're doing an old fashion catch up with your favorite 2 working moms. Catie is dying for some schedule back in her life, Danielle is recapping the first days of school for both kiddos and we're just scratching the surface. We're sharing tips on back to school shopping, talking through Jack's potty training journey, and of course Ryan's surgery...yes it's consider a surgery.

Grab your PSL or Cold Brew and catch up with your mom besties. Remember if we don't laugh, we'll just cry.
0:05 Pumpkin Spice Latte's are over $7 WTF
3:00 Back to school rollarcoaster
11:00 Ryan's Vasectomy Recap
19:30 Potty Training
31:00 BTS Shopping Tips & Tricks

• Catie's Chicago Adventure: Hear all about Catie's recent trip to the Windy City and her obsession with a good blowout.

• Hangovers & Aging: Why do hangovers seem to get tougher as we get older? We share our thoughts and personal experiences on this age-old dilemma.

• Father's Day Fun: Celebrating the dads in our lives! We discuss our favorite moments from Father's Day and how we made the day special.

• Danielle's College Reunion Trip: Danielle is gearing up for a fun trip with her college friends. She is definitely ready for some girl time, queso and lots of drinks!

Tune in for laughs, stories, and a whole lot of mom talk!

That's why we put together a chaos control challenge for this month. Let's get things back in order, mentally, physically and just the household in general. We have daily, weekly and monthly challenges for you to follow along. Download the worksheet we'll be using all month here:

https://linktr.ee/from9tomom

Make sure you are following us on Instagram, share your progress with @from9tomom as we might have some fun surprises throughout the month to keep us going!

Let's start off the school year right!

We talk about:

• What it’s really like working with your dad

• Keeping a family business thriving across generations

• Being present as a mom while showing up big in your career

• The mindset shifts that help working moms lead without burning out

If you’ve ever wondered how to chase your full potential while raising tiny humans (and occasionally managing your parents), this one’s for you.

Follow Jenna: https://www.missiondrivenadvisor.com/

This is seriously the shit we can't make up.

Episode up early this week because of thanksgiving!

We’re also talking about how moms take care of themselves now—whether that’s hopping on the latest MLM trend, justifying a girls’ trip as “self-care,” battling the mom guilt that comes with doing anything for yourself, or chasing the next new diet plan. It’s funny, it’s real, and it might hit a little too close to home.

Whether you’re laughing along, shaking your head, or texting your own mom “wait…you didn’t even own a sound machine?”—this episode is for every modern mama who knows we’re all just figuring it out one Target run at a time.

We reflect on the chaos, the growth, and the hilarious moments that come with raising kids—plus a few unforgettable stories from Danielle’s younger years. It’s heartfelt, funny, and a perfect way to celebrate the moms who raised us.

Don't forget to like, subscribe and rate our podcast it's the best way to support what we're doing!

With the holidays coming up there is so many added on tasks to your ever growing laundry list. Between elf on the shelf, presents for everyone, work parties, you are bound to forget something. Clock in with us to talk more about the holidays!

We’re talking:🏖️ Post-vacation reality checks📆 The madness of summer program scheduling🚗 Becoming full-time unpaid Uber drivers😩 Still working full-time while everyone under 4 feet tall has plans every 7 minutes
😭 Oh—and the emotional spiral of realizing our kids are growing up way too fast

If you’re already exhausted by the summer that hasn’t even started yet... same. Tune in for laughs, real talk, and a few dramatic sighs.

Tune in and laugh with us and help settle some of the debates we have.

✨ Whether you’ve been here since day one or you’re just tuning in, this episode is a perfect place to celebrate with us, catch up on some must-listens, and get excited for what’s ahead.

👉 Thank you for being part of our journey—cheers to year three! 🥂

Didn’t have time to read Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins? We got you. 🙌 In this episode, we go section by section and break down the book in a way that actually makes sense for busy moms juggling 45 tabs in their brain.

Think of this as your CliffsNotes with caffeine ☕—minus the pressure and plus a lot more real talk. We’re sharing the quotes that hit hard, the parts that made us say “same,” and where we still kinda want to control everything (oops).

Whether you read it, skimmed it, or just liked the TikToks about it—this is the mom take you didn’t know you needed.

Here's to Let Them, And Let Me!

This week talk about our weekends, how Danielle's Mom blew being sneaky, Catie got a win shopping (when does that ever happen to any of us) and of course hear all the shit we can't make up.

Here's to Ryan getting a hole in one this summer. Tune in and listen to From 9 to Mom featuring Dad.

We're also trying something new, let's set goals every week and hold each other accountable!

Submit your shit you can't make up stories by direct messaging us or leaving a comment!

We share:
✔️ How moms can use LinkedIn to network and grow professionally
✔️ Best practices for keeping your profile up-to-date (even when life is chaos)
✔️ Simple tips of what to post, when to post, how often to post
✔️ Our real-life experience using LinkedIn as business owners and moms

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started on LinkedIn, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone trying to balance career + motherhood in a digital world.

Hit play, and let’s get you showing up like the boss you are! 💼💪

Now that we're a few months into the school year, if you haven't gotten a illness to come through your household we hate to say, it's coming.

We have quite the extensive list to build out your illness preparedness kit at home, what we love to have on hand and more!

We're also going through those scary moments of when to know you need a doctor. Moms intuition is REAL!

For all of Taylor's breastfeeding essentials check out our page: https://linktr.ee/from9tomom

🔖screentime and kids, summer parenting tips, working moms podcast, parenting and technology, screentime behavior issues, managing screentime, from 9 to mom podcast, digital parenting, summer routine with kids, mom guilt screentime

Between snack interruptions from Jack 🍿, real talk about balancing work and motherhood, and plenty of laughs along the way, it’s the perfect “welcome back” episode that every working mom will relate to.

Tune in, laugh with us, and remember — we’re all just doing our best to keep it together (mostly).

We chat about the different ways we and our husbands prepare when guests are on the way—and while we 100% appreciate the effort (freshly mowed lawns do look great), we also dive into the reality of how hard it is to find time for chores when you’re a working parent.

From trying to scrub a toilet with a toddler asking for snacks to folding laundry at 9pm after a full workday, we’re unpacking the mental and physical load of “keeping up” while still wanting to be present with our families.

This one’s real, relatable, and a gentle reminder that you’re not alone in the mess.

We of course are giving our best gift ideas for dad, kids and ourselves! Jump right to minute 46 if you are looking for ideas! 

Of course, we couldn’t resist a few “you can’t make this up” childhood stories too. This episode is full of laughs, love, and that sweet generational mom wisdom we all need.

We debate when to step in and just pick the costume already, share our trick-or-treating traditions (and Danielle’s big change this year — attending a wedding instead of making the candy rounds!), and, of course, gush over our kids’ obsession with all things spooky.

It’s a little scary, a little sleepy, and a whole lot of mom life chaos. 💀🍬

With this month being our chaos challenge we are also talking about how to organize and get ahead in your planning. Rachel is now part of the Travelmation Group and is ready to help you plan that next family getaway. From a Christmas Disney trip, to next years spring break, get ahead of the planning process and let her take care of it for you!

Let us know how you are keeping organized and any tips and tricks you can share with the From 9 To 5 listeners.

We break down all 9 Enneagram types (👩‍💼 at work + 👩‍👧 as a mom) and share how each number shows up in daily life. From perfectionist tendencies to peacemaker vibes, we cover the quirks, strengths, and challenges that come with each type. We also reveal our own Enneagram numbers and what we’re personally taking away from learning more about ourselves.

👉 Whether you’re curious if you’re a Type 1 Perfectionist mom balancing endless to-do lists, a Type 7 Enthusiast mom chasing fun and adventure, or somewhere in between, this episode will give you relatable insights and some “aha!” moments.

💡 Why this matters:

• Gain self-awareness in your work life 💻

• Understand your parenting style 🍼

• Learn how your type influences relationships, stress, and balance ❤️

🔗 Want to take the Enneagram test for yourself? Try these:

• Free Enneagram Test

• Official Enneagram Institute Test

Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe even learn a little more about yourself in the process. 🎙️

We also wrap up with first half book recap for our From 9 to Mom book club friends, so be warned—spoiler alert! If you haven’t read the book yet, you might want to skip the last part of the episode until you’re all caught up.

Tune in for a mix of laughs, frustration, and a healthy dose of real talk about the products we love to hate (and sometimes still buy anyway). 🙃✨

We can't wait for everything that's in store for 2024, including consistent episodes, funny content, and shit you can't make up.

We're so excited to have you along for the ride.