Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey

In the special segment, "They Said What?!," Shanna and Laura report on the shocking, funny and questionable things people have said to them lately, including some unexpected advice about children's growth, a shocking toy-store declaration, an amusing accusation and more. Also, Laura discusses getting a breast ultrasound after having an inconclusive mammogram, and Shanna recounts an exasperating excursion with her 6-year-old. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Getting a breast ultrasound after having an inconclusive mammogram -Spending one-on-one time with your child -When your kids' blame inanimate objects for their injuries -Encouraging your kids to be independent in public This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying?," Shanna and Laura explore the things that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, diving into the topics of Disneyland disappointments and fashion fails. Also, Shanna talks about how her kids reacted to their dad going out of town for a week, and Laura reports on how her family turned lemons into lemonade. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Parenting without your partner when they go out of town -Celebrating Earth Day with your kids -Setting up a lemonade stand with your kids -Disappointing experiences at Disneyland -Should I put fake nails on my kid? -Bring your kid to work day -Finding your true bra measurement This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Loose Ends," Laura and Shanna give updates about topics they've talked about previously, including extended breastfeeding, bangs, book clubs and more! Also, Laura reports on taking her 6-year-old on the most thrilling ride of his life at California Adventure, and Shanna discusses how her 9-year-old handled her first Easter knowing the truth about the Easter Bunny. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What to do on spring break with your kids -Going to Disneyland and California Adventure with your family -Celebrating Easter when your kid doesn't believe in the Easter Bunny anymore -When your kids have strong feelings about their stuffed animals -Letting your kids express themselves with hairstyles, piercings and more -Has Laura stopped breastfeeding Sebastian? -Considering adopting a new family dog This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "What the Hack?," Shanna and Laura share some of their favorite parenting tips and tricks, including ideas for cleaning up toys, improving bath time, encouraging cooperation and more! Also, Shanna reports on her questionable attempt to make her husband's life easier, and Laura talks about a big shakeup in her 6-year-old's extracurricular activity schedule. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Involving the whole family in big, impulsive decisions -Knowing when to adjust your child's extracurricular activity schedule -Tips, tricks and hacks for making parenting easier -Tricks for cleaning toys, playrooms and kids' bedrooms -How to easily tie balloons -Ideas for getting your kids to cooperate during times of transition -Family time in the backyard -Date night with your partner This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Laura and Shanna turn back time to give their former selves parenting advice based on what they know now, including wisdom about family pets and household appliances. Also, Shanna and Laura report on epic play dates that were longer, messier and more emotional than they had anticipated. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What to do with your kids on a day off of school -Having a play date at an indoor playground -Managing your child's tween friendship drama -Taking your dog to obedience training -Clever idea for getting your kid to transition to bath and bedtime -Going to the Tank Museum with your kids -Getting your kids to throw away trash when they are in your car This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Stump the Moms,” Shanna and Laura quiz each other with trivia questions about bizarre school fundraisers, lengthy human pregnancies, fertility crime and more! Also, Shanna reports on talking to her 9-year-old daughter about rainbow babies and miscarriages, and Laura discusses the sporting events that got her family up and running. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What is a rainbow baby? -Talking to your kids about miscarriage, IVF and your pregnancy journey -Volunteering at your child's annual fundraiser -School fundraising events gone wrong -Old-fashioned parenting advice from the 1920s -Who is Kaitlyn Braun? -Treatment for your child's exercise-induced bronchospasms This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna reveal the funny and unusual things they've asked the internet recently in the special segment "What I Googled This Week," diving into the topics of sex education and DIY projects. Also, Laura discusses the surprise that turned her family's trip to the botanical garden from dreary to delightful, and Shanna reports on how she handled her 9-year-old's direct line of questioning about Santa Claus. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Vestibular migraines -Unexpected play dates -St. Patrick's day, leprechauns and leprechaun traps -When your child wants to know the truth about Santa -DIY projects and ideas you have as a parent -Sex education books for young kids -Loog guitars -Taking your kids to live theater This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Gripe Water," Laura and Shanna share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into the topics of confusing communication and cuckoo kids' songs. Also, Shanna reports on a crafting activity that had her entire family seeing green, and Laura discusses taking her first solo flight since becoming a parent. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Making leprechaun traps with your kids for St. Patrick's Day -Going out of town without your kids -Confusing communication from your kids' school -Terrible kids' songs on Spotify -Chapter book recommendation for emerging readers -Making a handmade quilt for a baby shower gift This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Shanna and Laura reveal funny and unexpected things they've never done before having kids, including giving out inappropriate items at a kids' party, using a children's couch for a risky DIY project and more! Also, Laura talks about living on the edge all week to see if her 4-year-old's cheek scratch will heal before his preschool picture day, and Shanna reports on her 6-year-old's big change that caused lots of tears. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Preschool picture day -How quickly kids' injuries heal -Cutting your kids' bangs at home -Buying kids' sticker packs on Amazon and regretting it -Using the Nugget kids' couch in creative ways -Fixing a broken baby monitor -Parenting while having the flu This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Mom Wins," Laura and Shanna celebrate their recent parenting successes, diving into the topics of handling your child's selective eating and managing your kids' relationship with your pets. Also, Shanna discusses some changes that have inspired her to focus on her own needs, and Laura reports on giving her 6-year-old a long-overdue haircut. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Taking care of your mental health when you're a mom -Working on mindfulness and self-care -Giving your kid a haircut at home -Handling your child's selective eating -How long does it take to make progress with a picky eater? -Managing your kids and your pets -Helping your kids and pets get along -Bailing on social activities -Feeling impostor syndrome -Taking your kids to Travel Town in Griffith Park This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned recently, including some "super" facts about nipples, nursing in the wild and more! Also, Laura reports on her 6-year-old's surprising symptom from an otherwise mild virus, and Shanna describes a dinnertime activity she created to celebrate her kids' positive qualities. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Slapped cheek syndrome -Recognizing your kids' positive qualities -Supernumerary nipples -Elephant seals' nursing habits -Spending one-on-one time with your child -The joy of having spontaneous get-togethers This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!," Shanna and Laura reveal the current parenting dilemmas that have their hair standing on end, diving into the topics of night terrors, YouTube tutorials and more. Also, Shanna reports on a family trip that went much differently than she had expected, and Laura discusses her attempt to have a relaxing week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Taking a weekend trip with your kids -Taking care of pets and kids -When your child has night terrors -Trying to teach your kids new skills This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura answer more listener questions in another installment of "Checkin' the Inbox," diving into the topics of gender disappointment, surrogacy, introversion and more. Also, Laura talks about throwing a joint birthday party for her sons at the same time she had to care for her ailing cat, and Shanna reports on her kindergartener losing her first tooth. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Throwing a joint birthday party for your kids -Losing a family pet -When your child loses their first tooth -Defying gender norms -Handling gender disappointment -Being a surrogate -Traveling during the third trimester -Knowing when your preschooler is ready to nap This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox," Shanna and Laura answer listener questions about the most rewarding and most challenging parts of parenting, the best kids' books they've read recently, how to prevent getting peed on during a diaper change and more! Also, Shanna reports on the surprising reason she got a day off of parenting, and Laura discusses her moment of panic at Disneyland. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Getting a day off from parenting -Elle's 9th birthday -Sebastian's 4th birthday -Going to Disneyland with your family -Best and worst parts of parenting during the newborn phase -Best and worst parts of parenting during the toddler phase -Best and worst parts of parenting during the school-age phase -Great kids' picture books and chapter books -How to help your child transition from preschool to Kindergarten -How to handle being an "old" parent -How to avoid getting peed on by your baby boy during diaper changes This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Laura reflects on sibling relationships as she recounts the time in 7th grade when she ran for student council and her brother became her political fixer. Also, Shanna reports on all the mishaps at the elaborate escape-room birthday party that she threw for her daughter, and Laura discusses the unexpected challenge that sprung upon her family this week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Handling unexpected challenges when you're a parent -Planning an escape-room birthday party for your kid -Reflecting on memories from middle school -Ice skating with your young kids -Best kids' party favors This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Shanna turns back time to recount the story of the first time she gave birth and all the ways it turned out to be different from how she'd expected it to be. Also, Laura talks about introducing her 6-year-old to stop-motion animation, and Shanna reports on her last-minute scramble to plan an elaborate birthday party for her almost 9-year-old. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Planning an escape room birthday party for your kid -Teaching your kids stop-motion animation -Shanna's unplanned C-section birth story -When your birth doesn't go as planned -Moms supporting victims of the Los Angeles fires -Setting boundaries for your kids' extracurricular activities -Joining a book club This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura introduce the brand-new special segment "Would You Rather: Parenting Edition," in which they present hilarious sets of hypothetical situations from their own lives and listeners' lives and then discuss which choices they would rather make. Also, Laura reports on her family's stay in Long Beach when they evacuated Los Angeles due to the wildfires, and Shanna discusses her efforts to maintain stability for her kids during the wildfire week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Evacuating for the Los Angeles wildfires -Parenting during the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Difficult choices you have to make as a parent -The hilarious and questionable things you do as a mom -Dig It play space in Torrance -Pour painting class at kids' art studio This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Internet Insanity," Laura and Shanna share the wild and wacky parenting-related content they've found online recently, including "Someone's Mom Said No," a hilarious meme that captures the reality of shopping with kids, as well as "Willy's Chocolate Experience," a fantastical children's event gone terribly wrong. Also, Shanna talks about her kids visiting her at work for the first time, and Laura reports on spending her son's 6th birthday in snowy Colorado. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Having your kids visit you in the office -Traveling to Colorado with your family -Laura's son's 6th birthday -When your kid experiences snow for the first time -Someone's Mom Said no meme -Willy's Chocolate Experience debacle -Fun board game for the family -Fun museum for the family This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment, "They Said What?!" Shanna and Laura discuss the funny, outrageous or offensive things people have said to them recently about parenting, including stories about negligent neighbors and movie-theater mishaps. Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's surprising new outdoor interest, and Shanna discusses a last-minute pivot she and her husband had to make on Christmas Eve. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Christmas with young kids -Doing yard work with young kids -Big-muscle activity for kids -Kids and trampolines -Should I give big gifts from Santa or from parents -Falling asleep during movies as a mom -Rude neighbors This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Mom Confessions,” Laura and Shanna share their recent embarrassing or hilarious parenting experiences, diving into the topics of desperate decisions and rough realizations. Also, Shanna reports on a surprising new development in her family's life, and Laura talks about how the roughhousing between her sons has intensified. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Different ways of moving on from grief -Family pets -Roughhousing between siblings -Mom confessions This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Loose Ends," Laura and Shanna circle back on topics they've talked about in previous episodes, including updates about inane injuries, toy tantrums, 5-year-olds' friendships, and one of BFP's colossal cliffhangers to date. Also, Laura reports on her 3-year-old's "why phase," which is more like a "who, what, when, where, why phase," and Shanna checks in on her dog, Sasha, and discusses the challenge of handling conflicting emotions when you are a parent. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Handling your child's "why phase" or "question phase" -Helping your child deal with the loss of a family pet -Compartmentalizing emotions when you are a mom -Tip for helping plantar fasciitis -Kindergartener friendships -Setting boundaries with your kids -Water slide injuries and other weird injuries when you are a parent -Should I buy that big-ticket outdoor toy for my kids? This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna come to you in real time to check in during the wildfires in Los Angeles. They provide updates about how they are doing during their city's crisis and have an insightful conversation with Gia Gambaro Blount, a local child development expert and parenting coach. about parenting during and after emergencies. Gia is a highly-regarded parenting expert in one of the areas that are being hit hardest by the devastation - Pasadena and Altadena - and she provides wisdom that not only comes from her years of expertise in child development but also as a parent who lives in the area and is personally affected by it as well. Important Links: -Our list of resources for victims of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Our list of how to help and donate to support victims of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Gia Gambaro Blount's Instagram - Follow Gia to get daily advice and wisdom about parenting through crisis (and more) -Gia Gambaro Blount's Website -Big Fat Positive's Facebook Community Group - A supportive community that has shown compassion for and interest in helping parents and families in need at this time (plus ongoing conversations and support about parenting in general Topics Discussed in This Episode: -How the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires are affecting parents -How to parent your child during a crisis -Advice from a local parenting expert who is actively helping parents and families navigate this crisis -How to handle emergencies when you're a parent -How to talk to your child about catastrophic events -How to help your child process trauma after the emergency is over -How to help victims of the Los Angeles fires This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Visit our website. Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on the shocking event that complicated her daughter's sixth birthday party, and Laura talks about getting a mammogram while breastfeeding. Also, in the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying," Laura and Shanna thoughtfully dissect the seemingly mundane situations that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, including big feelings at Whole Foods, the frozen yogurt shop and more. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Throwing a birthday party for your 6 year old -Handling your pet's medical issues -Getting a mammogram while breastfeeding -When your kids have big feelings -Understanding why your kids are crying about seemingly insignificant things This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2024 is coming to an end, and In the special segment "Year in Review," Laura and Shanna reflect on their last 12 months of parenting. As they look back on 2024, they share their biggest joys, challenges, realizations and more. Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's new interest in helping out in the kitchen, and Shanna talks about the challenges of planning for her kids' three-week winter break. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Thanksgiving with kids -Kids helping in the kitchen -Picky/selective eating in kids -Planning for your kids' winter break -When your partner helps lighten your mental load -Signing kids up for winter break day camp -2024 year in review -End-of-year self-reflection questions for parents This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura share last-minute gift ideas and holiday tips in the special segment "What the Hack?!," including tricks for hanging ornaments, managing holiday-morning chaos and more! Also, Shanna checks in on her mission to remove 1,000 pounds of sand from her backyard, and Laura talks about an artistic activity that has deeply engaged her 5-year-old. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -How to get rid of a sandbox -My kid keeps drawing violent images -Tips and tricks for managing the holidays with kids -Last-minute holiday gift ideas This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Stump the Mom," Laura and Shanna grill each other with amusing and educational trivia questions involving surprising facts about family-favorite holiday movies, treats and toys! Also, Laura reports on what life has been like with her mom, aka Grandma Susan, living next door, and Shanna talks about diving into birthday party planning for her kindergartener. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What is it like to live next door to your mom when you have kids? -Relationship between small children and their grandparents -Planning your kid's birthday party -Holiday trivia questions relevant to moms and families -Classic kids' toys -Extracurricular activities for your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Shanna and Laura turn back time to give their former selves parenting advice based on what they know now, including wisdom about first-trimester morning sickness, toddler meltdowns and more. Also, Shanna's 5-year-old reaches a milestone that there's no turning back from, and Laura kids take a big leap in their room-sharing journey. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -When to switch your child from a five-point harness to a booster seat in the car -Getting a bunk bed for your kids -Managing your kids sharing a room -Activities that trigger the memory of pregnancy nausea -Handling your child's inconsolable meltdowns -Developing trust with your child -Letting go of diet culture and appreciating your body -Whether or not to buy expensive outdoor toys for your kids -Weird places cats hide -Is my child tall enough to go on the Millennium Falcon ride at Disneyland? This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna introduce a brand-new special segment in which they invite a fellow parent on to participate in a classic BFP segment of the guest's choice and share about what's going on in their parenting world! In this episode, Shanna and Laura chat with mom and writer Heather Sundell, who talks about her experience making a big life decision when she was 8 months pregnant. Also, Laura discusses her struggle to make time for her 3-year-old's school event during a very busy work week, and Shanna reports on hosting a kids' Halloween party at her house. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Halloween events and parties -Balancing work and parenting -Deciding whether to go back to school when you are a mom -Whether or not to cancel your child's extracurricular activity -Dia de los Muertos This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "What I Googled This Week," Shanna and Laura share the hilarious and embarrassing parenting-related questions they have asked the internet recently, diving into the topics of infant snot suckers, surprising swimming injuries, movie mysteries and more! Also, Shanna gives an update on the working-mom overwhelm she has been feeling recently, and Laura reports on a big change in her 3-year-old's bedtime routine. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Handling overwhelm when you are a mom -Sharing the mental load with your partner -Having trouble getting 3-year-old to go to bed -Should my kids share a bedroom? -Can AI help identify this movie my kid is talking about? -Weird injuries you get when you are older -Using a baby product on a cat -How to get rid of sandbox sand -Handling kids' bedtime with your partner -Fun board games to play with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Mom Wins," Laura and Shanna celebrate their recent parenting successes, diving into the topics of solving bedtime dysregulation and creating fruitful family fun. Also, Laura reports on her family's deep dive into fall activities, including a trip to a truly unique pumpkin patch, and Shanna opens up about her struggle to manage transitioning back to working in the office while also juggling parenting responsibilities. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Taking your kids to the pumpkin patch -How much does it cost to rent a Millennium Falcon bounce house? -Struggling to manage being a working mom and handle the transition to returning to the office. -Celebrating your parenting successes -Growing your own pomegranates -Using a creative solution to solve your kids' dysregulation at bedtime -A TV show that's a great alternative to YouTube and TikTok for kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Gripe Water," Shanna and Laura share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into the topics of troublesome toys and sloppy surfaces. Also, Shanna talks about taking "drop-off playdates" to a whole new level, and Laura reports on managing work and parenting when a deadline is looming. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -How to manage drop-off playdates -Should I let my child ride in someone else's car? -Laura and Gia's potty training book -Managing work and parenting simultaneously -Why are kids' toys so loud? -How to keep surfaces uncluttered when you have kids -Revamping your backyard to make it more kid-friendly -Instilling house rules about toys This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned recently, including a historical parenting choice that resonates today, a surprising weeklong break that some schools in the U.S. take and more. Also, Laura reports on leaving her kids for two nights for the first time ever, and Shanna talks about her 5-year-old's recent class presentation. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going out of town without your kids for the first time -What will happen to my milk supply if I go out of town without my nursing child? -Is walking pneumonia going around? -Parenting when you and your partner are sick at the same time -Are cats affected by having kids in the home? -What is the history of baby leashes? -What is Ski Week at schools? -When toddlers become queens -Do I need to get my tonsils out? -Car seat buckle helper This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna get in the Halloween spirit with a very spooky "Throwback" segment, in which Laura recounts unsettling moments from her childhood living in a haunted house. Also, Shanna reports on how the Halloween season disrupts her life, and Laura discusses the evolution of her 3-year-old's Halloween costume. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Halloween -Costume ideas for your kids -Celebrating Halloween with your kids -Growing up in a haunted house -Doing Halloween crafts with your kids -Seeing "The Wild Robot" movie with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!" Shanna finds herself contemplating the apocalypse when she watches one of her kids' favorite shows, and Laura gets the willies when she imagines the upcoming phase in her kids' dental journey. Also, Laura reports on the spontaneous adventure she took with her 3-year-old, and Shanna reluctantly admits how she has backtracked on her resolve to simplify her family's life. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going on spontaneous adventures with your kid -Visiting the National History Museum in Los Angeles -Should I sign my kids up for extracurricular activities? -Worrying about the apocalypse when you're a mom -The kids show Colossal Questions -Handling overwhelm when you are a mom -Ideas for getting your kid to take antibiotics when they hate the taste This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In part two of "Checkin' the Inbox," Laura and Shanna answer more listener questions, diving into the topics of fertility tests, baby names, diet culture and more! Also, Shanna talks about her daughter's student council campaign, and Laura reports on her 5-year-old's latest writing achievement. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Helping your kid run for student council -When letters and writing click for your Kindergartener -How to handle social media when you are pregnant -Handling grief when you are a parent -Trying to conceive -Should I do fertility testing before trying to conceive This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox," Shanna and Laura answer listener questions about strategies for keeping your mom-life organized, handling nudity in front of your kids, discussing your child's development with strangers and more. Also, Laura talks about feeling overwhelmed by managing her parenting, work and home life, and Shanna discusses what happened when she said "yes" to her 5-year-old's surprising idea for a play date. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Feeling overwhelmed as a mom -Juggling parenting, work and home life -Setting up fun play dates for your kids -What apps are good for organizing your mom-life -How do you talk to strangers about your child's development -When should you stop being naked in front of your kids -Identifying where you have confidence as a parent -The Moth story slam -Using cookie cutters to make kids' dinner fun This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "What the Hack?," Laura and Shanna share some of their favorite parenting tips and tricks, including ideas for encouraging your kids' independent play, helping your kids relax after having bad dreams and more. Also, Shanna reports on the newest addition to her family, and Laura talks about her 3-year-old's sudden swimming skills. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Exposing your kids to old-school technology -Encouraging your kids to write stories -When will my preschooler learn to swim? -Parenting tips and tricks -How to use a candle safely when you have kids -Using Magnatiles in a creative way -How to help kids get stickers off of sticker sheets -Encouraging your kids' independent play -Using task charts to motivate your kids -How to handle clothes your kids have outgrown -Ideas for handling your kids' bad dreams -Improving your backyard -Taking fun photos with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Laura and Shanna dive into the topics of unusual things we have bought for our kids, the eerie things we've heard lately as parents and more! Also, Laura discusses her experience getting a colonoscopy and how it affected her mom life, and Shanna reports on the newest reward system she's invented for her kids. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Getting a colonoscopy -Preparing for a colonoscopy when you're a mom -Creating a reward system for your kids to incentivize good behavior -When your kid wants to use vampire teeth -Handling your child's big emotions at pickup time -When your child talks about their past lives -Hearing creepy things on the baby monitor -Trouble with kids' extracurricular activities -Spending time with family friends This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In another installment of the segment "Internet Insanity," Shanna and Laura take a deep dive into the confounding world of Skibidi Toilet, including its origins, its hold on Gen Alpha and the moral panic surrounding its existence. Also, Shanna reports on the questionable thing her daughter's school did without parental consent, and Laura checks in on her 5-year-old's first week of Kindergarten. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Back to school -Is it okay for schools to collect biometric data from students? -First day of kindergarten -What is Skibidi toilet? -Is it okay for my kid to watch Skibidi Toilet? -When our kids are exposed to internet memes -Taking time to do something for yourself when you're a mom -An excellent and funny kids book This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Internet Insanity," Laura and Shanna dive into a mysterious company that sells breast pumps online and their bizarre social-media marketing strategy. Also, Laura reports on her 3-year-old's back-to-school meltdowns, and Shanna recounts her own mom meltdown that recently happened in a very public place. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -The challenges of sending your kids back to school -When your preschooler doesn't want to go to school -Sibling jealousy about lack of fairness -Having embarrassing parenting moments in public -Why we shouldn't judge other moms -Taking a road trip with kids -Shady companies selling baby and parenting products -Is MomCozy a legit company? -How to fix plantar fasciitis This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment, "They Said What?!" Shanna and Laura discuss the funny, outrageous or offensive things people have said to them recently about parenting, including a scrutiny on screen time and a philosophy on floss; plus we dive into some surprising things WE said recently! Also, Shanna reports on her 5-year-old's infatuation with injuries, and Laura discusses how her family's recent vacation involved serious sleep struggles. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -When your kids get lots of boo-boos -My kid uses too many band-aids -Taking your kids on an airplane -How to handle sleep when you travel with kids -Weird things kids say -Handling judgmental things people say about your parenting -Embarrassing things you say as a mom -Sharing interests with your kids -Great places to go in Portland with Kids -Hidden Creek Park West -Oregon Museum of Science and Industry This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

Laura and Shanna both dive into the topic of being working moms. Laura reports on the challenges of her freelance projects ramping up at the least ideal time, and Shanna reports on adjusting to returning to the office after working remotely for almost six years. Also, in the special segment "Loose Ends," Shanna and Laura give updates about topics they've talked about previously, including potty training, pom-pom jars, parkour and more! Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -The challenges of being a working mom -Returning to the office after working remotely -How to handle childcare when you are a working parent -Potty training -Should I let my kids do drop-off playdates? -Visual calendars and clocks for kids -Why is my child chewing on her hair? -Making time for yourself when you're a mom -Listening to audiobooks This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Throwback," Shanna tells the story of the time in high school when she devised an elaborate plan to ask a boy she had a crush on to the Sadie Hawkins dance. Also, Laura reports on a family outing that made her realize how much her life has changed by having two rambunctious young boys, and Shanna gives an update on her regrettable, 12-month-long contract at the kids' tumbling studio. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What to do when your kid stops liking their extracurricular activities -How having energetic kids changes your life -How to respond when your child tells you they have a crush -Encouraging your kids' creativity in unexpected ways -The importance of mom friends and community This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Throwback," Laura tells the story of her very first best friend in Kindergarten and the turn of events in their friendship that broke her heart. Also, Shanna reports on her 5-year-old's language development, including the hilarious insults she coined, and Laura discusses the feelings that came up during her 3-year-old's preschool completion ceremony. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura's kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Preschool graduation/completion ceremony -5-year-old experimentation with language -Kids' funny insults -Friendships in kindergarten -Should I let my young daughter wear makeup -Taking kids to Brick Fest This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

Shanna tells the story of a mishap during her rejuvenating "me day," and Laura reports on her family's unique way of celebrating the 4th of July. Also, in the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying," Shanna and Laura thoughtfully dissect the seemingly mundane situations that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, including big feelings about desert birds and swing sets. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Feeling overwhelm as a mom -Taking a "me day" as a mom -Finding a way to relax and recharge as a parent -Spending the 4th of July with kids -Understanding the deeper meaning behind your child's big feelings -How to respond when your child expresses jealousy -How to respond when your child expresses anxiety -Kids musical theater -Reaction to fireworks as a parent This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment “Mom Confessions,” Laura and Shanna divulge their recent embarrassing and hilarious parenting moves, including a donut shop trip gone sideways, a Star Wars day gone awry, and more! Also, Laura reports on a revelation she had during a family outing to the beach, and Shanna decides to "let it go" when checking in on her kids' new summer camp. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going to the beach with kids -Mom anxiety -Kids summer camp -Frozen Jr. -Moms admitting to embarrassing things they've done with their kids -Public wading pools for kids -Best above-ground swimming pools for kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment “Stump the Moms,” Shanna and Laura grill each other with amusing and educational trivia questions involving surprising facts about Disney theme parks and the energy required to sustain a pregnancy. Also, Shanna reports on hosting a group play date that took a turn she never saw coming, and Laura discusses the big emotions her 3-year-old felt after experiencing a complicated social interaction. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Playdates -When your child experiences social rejection -How much energy does it take to sustain a pregnancy? -How many calories does a pregnant person use to create a baby? -Weird and surprising facts about Disney theme parks This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Laura and Shanna turn back time and give pregnancy and parenting advice to their past selves, including words of wisdom about creating friendships, doing bedtime routines, committing to extracurricular activities and more! Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's last week of school, and Shanna reports on the ironic event that almost ruined her kids' first week of summer camp. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Summer break -Summer camp -Swimmer's ear -Tips for giving kids eardrops -Developing friendships with other parents -Having separate streaming accounts for your kids -Committing to extracurricular activities for your kids -How to do bedtime with both parents -Taking first and last day of school photos -Adopting a kitten This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "What I Googled This Week," Shanna and Laura reveal the hilarious and embarrassing things they have asked the internet lately, diving into the topics of kids' candy, fire safety, the pelvic floor and more! Also, Shanna reports on the ups and downs of taking her kids to a theme park all by herself, and Laura talks about the surprising turn of events at her son's school art walk. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Summer break -Taking your kids to a theme park by yourself -Elementary school art walk -Young kids participating in theater and dance -Googling embarrassing questions as a parent -Family beach tips -Baby fever This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Mom Wins!," Laura and Shanna celebrate their recent parenting achievements, including heroic sacrifices that involve indoor playgrounds and fancy notebooks. Also Laura reports on the skills that her 3-year-old has recently developed that makes him feel more like a big kid and less like a baby, and Shanna talks about how she celebrated her daughters' last week of school. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -3-year-old child develop -When your child feels more like a big kid than a baby -Signs of toddler independence -Your kids' last week of school -Volunteering in your kid's classroom -Making an uncomfortable sacrifice for your children -Acknowledging your child's feelings, even when they seem unreasonable -Playing hide and seek at the park with your kids -Playing board games with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.

In the special segment "Gripe Water," Shanna and Laura share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into parenting jealousy, bedtime books and more! Also, Shanna reports on the newest temporary additions to her family, and Laura talks about choosing to celebrate her birthday unconventionally. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura's kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Fostering kittens when you have kids -Going to Disneyland with your family -Bluey credits and autoplay -Feeling jealousy and FOMO as a parent -Frustrating kids' books -Reading chapter books to your kids before bed -5-year-old doing wordplay and taking words literally -Frying cheese as a snack for your kids -Finding a snack that your picky eater likes This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.