Au Paired Up

In this special throwback episode of Au Paired Up, we revisit Episode 6: "What is Fancy Cheese", where we dove deep into common scenarios encountered in Au Pair-host family dynamics. Join us as we unravel the complexities of curfews, food and toiletry requests as well as exploring the reactions of both Au Pairs and host families to these everyday challenges.

In this episode of Au Paired Up, Tricia takes the reins as she shares her solo adventure with the kids while Barbara enjoys a well-deserved vacation. Join us as Tricia recounts her journey through the highs and lows of Spring Break at Grandma's house, managing the household without childcare, and navigating the daily chaos with grace and resilience.

Join us on a journey to Brazil in this captivating episode of Au Paired Up, as we follow Barbara's exhilarating trip back to her homeland. Listen in as Barbara shares her expectations, surprises, and candid reflections on her homecoming, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of returning to familiar yet transformed surroundings.

In this hilarious episode of Au Paired Up, get ready to embark on a wild adventure as we unleash our inner animal and make animal noises in different languages and accents, all while sharing sidesplitting tales of animal sounds involving the kids. From roaring lions to chirping birds, get ready to laugh until your sides hurt as we embrace the joy of language, culture, and the universal language of laughter.

In this episode of Au Paired Up, we hear part one of a two part series and delve into the intricate world of host family and Au Pair preferences, exploring the factors that influence their choices and the importance of finding the perfect match. Join us as we uncover the preferences that host families and Au Pairs often prioritize and the reasons behind their selections, shedding light on the nuances of the Au Pair program.

In this episode of Au Paired Up, we hear part one of a two part series and delve into the intricate world of host family and Au Pair preferences, exploring the factors that influence their choices and the importance of finding the perfect match. Join us as we uncover the preferences that host families and Au Pairs often prioritize and the reasons behind their selections, shedding light on the nuances of the Au Pair program.

In part 2 of this enlightening episode of Au Paired Up, we are joined by special guest Ciarra Morgan, a certified birth doula, Podcaster for Birth, Baby! and so much more, as we dive into the world of childbirth and doula support. Join us as we explore the role of doulas, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss how Au Pairs can offer valuable support to host families during the childbirth journey and beyond.

In this enlightening episode of Au Paired Up, we are joined by special guest Ciarra Morgan, a certified birth Doula, Podcaster for Birth, Baby! and so much more, as we dive into the world of childbirth and doula support. Join us as we explore the role of doulas, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss how Au Pairs can offer valuable support to host families during the childbirth journey and beyond.

Join us in this eye-opening episode of Au Paired Up as we tackle the misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding Au Pairs, both from individuals outside the program and even some within it. From debunking common myths about Au Pairs to shedding light on aspects of the program that are often misunderstood, we aim to provide clarity and insight into the realities of the Au Pair experience.

In this episode of Au Paired Up, we delve into the diverse world of parenting styles, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to raising children. Join us as we explore different parenting styles, discuss the importance of aligning with your host family's preferences, and get your Au Pair's buy in.  We share practical tips for navigating the complexities of childcare with flexibility, understanding, and empathy.

Tricia and Barbara take a deep dive into the unique and cherished dynamic that unfolds when the Au Pair and Host Family form more than just a professional relationship. Join us as we share our experiences, discussing how cultivating friendships beyond childcare duties has enriched our lives, strengthened our bonds, and added an extra layer of joy to the Au Pair journey.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery in this empowering episode of Au Paired Up, where we unravel the essential traits and characteristics that pave the way for a successful Au Pair experience. Join us as we explore the qualities that contribute to building strong relationships, fostering cultural exchange, and creating a fulfilling journey as an Au Pair.

Embark on a journey of discovery in this enlightening episode of Au Paired Up, where we delve into the key traits and characteristics that lay the foundation for a successful host family and Au Pair relationship. Join us as we explore the qualities that create a harmonious and supportive environment, fostering meaningful connections and unforgettable memories in the world of Au Pairing.

In this essential episode of Au Paired Up, we dive into the world of sick days – an inevitable part of life that requires understanding, communication, and a touch of empathy. Join us as we unravel the details of how sick days work for Au Pairs, discuss strategies for handling them effectively, and explore the ways host families can provide support and care during these challenging times.

As a full year comes to a close, join us for a special episode of Au Paired Up as we take a nostalgic journey through the highlights, challenges, and surprises of 2023. From podcasting revelations to embarrassing moments and exciting plans for the future, this year-end review is a candid reflection on the lessons learned, the laughter shared, and the exciting prospects on the horizon.

Join Tricia and Barbara in the cozy embrace of festive traditions on this heartwarming episode of Au Paired Up. From twinkling lights to savory holiday meals, we explore the magic and significance of cherished customs that make the holiday season special. Listen in for tales of decorating escapades, heartwarming family gatherings, and the joyous spirit that comes with celebrating the holidays with a touch of home.

In part 2 of this festive episode of Au Paired Up Tricia and Barbara continue to dive into the delicate balance of creating holiday magic for kids during the winter break. Listen as we explore a myriad of activities, discussing whether they result in holiday havoc or blissful harmony.

In this festive episode of Au Paired Up Tricia and Barbara dive into the delicate balance of creating holiday magic for kids during the winter break. Listen as we explore a myriad of activities, discussing whether they result in holiday havoc or blissful harmony.

In this festive episode of Au Paired Up, we continue to explore the jolly world of Christmas as an Au Pair in part 2 of this topic. From heartwarming moments to unexpected challenges, we discuss various scenarios in our favorite holiday edition of "What Would You Do?"  Listen for a holly-jolly discussion filled with laughter, insights, and heartwarming tales from the holiday season!

In this festive episode of Au Paired Up, we explore the jolly world of Christmas as an Au Pair. From heartwarming moments to unexpected challenges, we discuss various scenarios in our favorite holiday edition of "What Would You Do?"  Listen for a holly-jolly discussion filled with laughter, insights, and heartwarming tales from the holiday season!

In this episode of Au Paired Up, Tricia and Barbara dive into the intricate world of Au Pair friendships, exploring the highs and lows, the laughter, and the challenges that come with building connections in a foreign land.  Listen for an insightful conversation on the intricate tapestry of Au Pair friendships, sharing stories that resonate with Au Pairs around the globe.

In this episode, Tricia and Barbara sit down with the wonderful Juliana, who has recently completed her au pair adventure and returned to her home country, Brazil. Join us as we dive into Juliana's post-au pair life, exploring the joys, challenges, and the unique experience of reverse culture shock.  Listen for a candid conversation that goes beyond borders, offering insights into the intricate process of returning home after an enriching au pair journey.

Tricia and Barbara host a guest, Juliana who moved across the country with her host family.  They discuss the ins and outs of the big move.

Tricia and Barbara discuss how and when to tell big news coming from the host family or the Au Pair to the other.  

Tricia and Barbara discuss phones and phone plans for Au Pairs along with some tips and tricks that they learned the hard way.  They also discuss some of the differences Au Pairs may not be aware of when it comes to phone plans and what costs extra.

Tricia and Barbara discuss the details that led to Tricia wanting to start hosting an Au Pair as well as why it worked for her family.  They also discuss some of the added benefits of having an Au Pair.

Barbara and Tricia discuss what events happened in Barbara's life to lead her down the path to becoming an Au Pair.

Tricia and Barbara discuss some of the activities that they did with the kids over the Pandemic at home or in the neighborhood.  Listen for some tips and tricks on different activities to do.  Along with some of the funny stories of what not to do.

Tricia and Barbara discuss different accents and how certain words are harder to pronounce than others.  They say different brand names in their own accents so listen to hear the differences!

Tricia and Barbara discuss what to do after the interviews and match.  The discuss how to communicate and continue building the relationship.

Tricia and Barbara discuss the different topics of the interviews and some advice to make the best of them.

Tricia and Barbara discuss the Au Pair/Host Family initial interview and everything leading up to the interviews.  This is part 1 of a 3 part series.

Tricia and Barbara discuss vacations for Au Pairs and Host Families.  They discuss the amount of days, the timing, and other requirements.  

Tricia and Barbara continue to discuss different scenarios that could happen between and Au Pair and Host Family and how they would handle or feel about them.

Tricia and Barbara discuss different situations that come up in Au Pair/Host Family life and how they would handle them.  

Tricia and Barbara discuss different sayings in English and Portuguese.  They cover some of the funny and random saying that don't translate directly.

Tricia and Barbara discuss some tips and tricks for childcare for big kids.  This is part 2 of last episode about babies.

Tricia and Barbara discuss tips and tricks about taking care of babies.  

Tricia and Barbara discuss gift giving and when it's appropriate or expected as well as some of the best gifts.

Tricia and Barbara discuss felling comfortable in the family kitchen and how to communicate about how to make food and what to eat.

Tricia and Barbara discuss different ways to bond as an Au Pair and Host Family.  They also discuss the importance of creating a bond and how this ties into other aspects of the Au Pair/Host Family experience.

Tricia and Barbara host a guest!  Tricia's neighbor Porter joins the pair to discuss how Barbara fit in with the neighborhood social circle.

Oops, last week the wrong episode was uploaded and you got to enjoy our embarrassing stories again.  This week Tricia and Barbara discuss having cameras in the home.  The discuss the appropriate placement of cameras, the intent behind why a HF puts cameras into the home and more considerations to think about.

Tricia and Barbara remember some of their most embarrassing moments.  Get ready to laugh!

Tricia and Barbara discuss homesickness.  They talk about about what homesickness is and how to recognize it as well as how to help make an Au Pair feel better.

Tricia and Barbara continue discussing the handbook/rules each family establishes in the beginning to set the correct expectations up front.

Tricia and Barbara discuss the Au Pair handbook/rules and go over each section and the information it contains.  They also tell stories about the information in the handbook.

Tricia and Barbara discuss different foods from Brazil and the U.S..  This is part 2 of the foods episodes.

Tricia and Barbara discuss food differences between America and Brazil.  They talk about common foods in their own countries that are unheard of in the other country.  This is Part 1 of this topic.

Tricia and Barbara discuss some of the common word and abbreviations found in Au Pair/Host Family language.  They explain some of different processes and jargon in the industry.

Tricia and Barbara discuss how to deal with news from the Au Pair's home country or missing out on events from home.  We also discuss how to talk about current events in the USA.