Kids Are Weird Podcast

For those of you who had sick kids this Christmas, we salute you. Stay Sane Out There.www.kidsareweirdpodcast.com

Hello friends!!! We are BACK, baby!!!! We definitely owe you an explanation on why we disappeared for the last 8 months, so we're here to provide you with one. It's also time for you to meet our new co-host, Josh! Thank you for sticking with us throughout 2023. Here's hoping 2024 brings no unexpected hiatuses.  Stay Sane Out There.www.kidsareweirdpodcast.com

Hey friends! So sorry to disappear on you all (again). Life is just crazy and as we always say, we're just out here doing our dang best. That being said, we have a new episode for you and it's alllll about picky eating! We now both have picky eaters, and it's quite the wild ride. Kids are WEIRD when it comes to food. Like, it makes no logical sense most of the time. Join us as we talk all things picky eating!Stay Sane Out There.www.kidsareweirdpodcast.com

We're talking nakedness and modesty this week. Taking on weird questions like "is it a problem to change our kids in front of another child", or "when is the appropriate age to stop showering with our children?" To be honest, we both tend to follow our kid's lead when it comes to them wanting privacy, and for now, that works for us! As the great RuPaul says, "We're born naked, and the rest is drag".Stay Sane Out There.www.kidsareweirdpodcast.com

Have you missed us? We know we left ya'll hanging and gave no explanation or warning and then just fell off the face of the planet for the last few months but! I promise we had good (or not so good) reasons as to why. So, please, let us explain. We've missed you. Stay Sane Out There.www.kidsareweirdpodcast.com

***Due to a technical error, you might be seeing this episode for the second time! It was accidentally uploaded to the wrong date, and a lot of people had missed out on seeing it was new, so we wanted to re-publish it so more of our audience could hear it. Our apologies if you've already listened.***  It never seems to stop. The constant running to-do list in the back of your mind; the ongoing list of what the family needs; the thankless hours researching what needs to be done, and exactly when it needs to be done.  It's all the behind-the-scenes work that makes the day run as seamlessly as possible. If you feel like there's always something, trust us when we say you are not alone. The mental load of motherhood is real, it's heavy, and for the sake of normalizing it, we're here to talk about it. 

Weddings are A LOT. They bring out the best in some of us, and the worst in others. People can get very weird about weddings, which makes sense. It's only like the biggest day of your life right? Listen to us chat about all the weirdness that came with not only our own weddings, but weddings we've both had the "pleasure" of being a part of. 

With new moments that no parenting book could ever prepare you for, we're starting to ask ourselves the following question: "Is everything just secretly covered in pee?"  After some recent events, we're starting to think it just might be. From outdoor playgrounds to indoor playspaces, we, unfortunately, have fallen witness to a handful of situations where our flight, fight or freeze kicked in. Join us as we discuss them and exactly how we dealt with these situations.

I think it's time we start to normalize only having one child. Especially, those of us who choose to have an only child. I grew up with the notion that only children are "weird" or "spoiled" but, now that I'm choosing to only have one child, I can tell you this is not always the case. Let's stop making families feel bad for only having one child. On the flip side, there are many people who do not choose to only have one child. Whatever the reason, don't shame people for that. Also, stop telling people to "just have another kid" so their child has someone to play with. Just, stop. And, don't miss this episode!

This week's episode is the continuation & conclusion of last week's episode with Albiona Rakipi. Don't miss it!

It never seems to stop. The constant running to-do list in the back of your mind; the ongoing list of what the family needs; the thankless hours researching what needs to be done, and exactly when it needs to be done.  It's all the behind-the-scenes work that makes the day run as seamlessly as possible. If you feel like there's always something, trust us when we say you are not alone. The mental load of motherhood is real, it's heavy, and for the sake of normalizing it, we're here to talk about it. 

If you could listen in on a convo with a real-life parenting coach, would you do it? If yes, then this episode is for YOU! We were lucky enough to have the wonderful Albiona Rakipi back on with us to give all us parents out there some much needed tips/advice! I'm sure you all remember Albiona from our Mom guilt episode. She's a fellow Metro Detroit Mom, and parenting coach (and really, just a lovely human being) Chatting with her is always a treat and this time she's back to drop some knowledge on us. Don't miss this one!

Gone are the times when parents leave the house with just their phone or purse in tow. When leaving the house with kids, it seems like we bring everything but the kitchen sink! And when our little ones have a say in what they want to bring with them, things can get, well, interesting... For us, getting out of the house lately has felt like a neverending story of who forgot what and a constant learning experience of what we need next time. So, if you've ever felt like that, this one's for you. 

I feel like this episode doesn't really need much further explanation. We all kind of know that some good 'ol QT is sometimes exactly what the doctor ordered. Especially for kids. But also especially for marriages. I mean, really for any relationship that you care about. But it isn't always easy to find time for quality time. With life being so busy, it can be a real challenge to connect with our kids sometimes, let alone our spouses. Let alone ourselves! So let's talk about it!

It's all fun and games when you're trying to make a baby... until it's not. The journey to parenthood isn't always the smoothest of roads and honestly, we don't feel like it's talked about enough.  After months of doing the baby dance, making it through the dreaded "two-week-wait", just to be faced with a big ole "Not Pregnant" test result can lead to feeling a whole range of emotions and even being left wondering what it is that you are doing wrong.  Trust us, we get it. And frankly, it sucks! So join us as we talk about this rollercoaster that we and many other women face, that is: trying to conceive.

We've talked about how kids clothing sizes are confusing af, but now we're going off about women's sizing. It makes no sense. Nothing about it. I can own several different pairs of things all in the exact same size, and they will all fit differently. And just because you're a size 6 in Old Navy jeans, does not mean you're a size 6 in Target jeans. One thing we are happy about when it comes to women's clothing, is that high waisted Mom jeans are IN, hunny. But also, why tf are all the shorts SO SHORT!??!?! All of this and more in this week's episode! Don't miss it!

It's been one of the hottest summers on record, and we've been doing everything we can to stay cool with the kiddos. That means we've been frequenting kid-filled, chaotic, water-wonderlands known as, "The Splash Pads". Maybe your area calls them "Spray-grounds" or "Spray Parks", but one thing's for sure,  when you're there, you have to stay on your toes! (and watch your toes...because concrete...ouch!) Everyone is running, everyone is wet, and you never know when you'll be hit with a stray spray to the face or when a kid will randomly ride their bike through the place. Sure, there may be rules, but it always seems so lawless. And without fail, there's always something unexpected that happens when we visit. So let's dive in, but not really because the water's only ankle deep...

We needed a title that sums up all the weird things that happen to us on an almost daily basis, plus a way to update our audience on what's happening in our lives, so here you go! Kind of an episode full of randomness and A TON of real-life weird s*** 

We talk a lot about things being weird. Hell, it's our entire brand. But, there are a lot of aspects of parenting that aren't weird and making yourself a priority is one of them. In fact, it's so not weird-it's literally necessary. When we prioritize ourselves, we are better caregivers, partners and overall humans. However, it's way easier said than done. 

We figured that the 4th of July is a perfect time to talk about how much we absolutely can't stand fireworks.  They're loud af. They're stressful. Is it fireworks or is it gun shots? Why are we hearing them at 2 in the afternoon?! Why are we hearing them at 2 in the morning!?!? Overall, they're just problematic, okay? 

Everyone has a couple of good ol' coworker stories. A few favorite work friends that maybe you wish you could see again, or even a few toxic ones that you will avoid until the end of time. We've been there, we've seen some things, and now we have a few stories to share. Join us as we reminisce on all the good, the bad, and all the weirdness that comes with having coworkers.  

Really, Mom shaming is awful and we NEED to stop doing it. Parenting is hard enough without being shamed by strangers on the internet, or family, friends-WHOEVER. And if you are someone who Mom shames (or Dad shames) others, this platform is not for you. Don't shame other parents. Just don't do it. You're shamed if your house is dirty, you're shamed if it's clean. You're shamed if your kids eat sugar, and you're shamed if you only serve organic food. It's absolutely insane. So, when it comes to Mom shaming-can we honestly just not?

Where my default parents at? You know, the ones who never get to poop with privacy. The ones who are up 6 times during a meal before they even take a bite. The ones who have to be woken up to ask what color a t-rex is? Yeah, we're talking to YOU my friends. Being the default parent is not an easy task-but someone has to do it....right?

Feeding kids makes no sense. And the longer my child is alive, the less sense it makes. One day they eat 4 yogurt smoothies, and the next day they cry at the mere mention of them. It. Makes. No. Sense. I would argue that one of the weirdest aspects of children, is trying to feed them, and WE KNOW we are not alone on this. So let's talk about it, shall we?

My relationship with screen time is....complicated. Like, I'm not anti-screen time but I STRUGGLE to not constantly feel guilty for every single second my child spends watching a screen. Even when we're ALL sick. Why am I like this? I know screen time is a widely debating and at times controversial subject in the parenting world, and I get why it is. But, screen time is not all bad like society often tries to make us feel....right? Anyways, let's talk about screen time!

So I stumbled upon this Buzzfeed article titled "17 Babysitters Opened Up About The Most Screwed Up Parents They've Ever Worked For, And You Should Buckle Up" and I thought "yeah we definitely need to do an episode about this. If you wanna feel reaaallllllly good about who you are not only as a parent, but a person-this episode is for you (and by you I mean me) 

I feel like the title kinda says it all on this one? Listen, I would happily die for my kid. But as far as other people's kids? That's gonna be a no from me, dawg. I'm both intimidated & terrified of other people's children. And other parents?!?!?! Even worse. So let's talk about it!

I feel like we talk a lot about the transition from infancy to toddlerhood, but I never remember anyone talking about the transition from toddlerhood to big kid-hood.  Like that moment when you cross the threshold into the big kid aisle for clothes. That's a BIG moment. Realizing your kid is no longer a baby, and admitting to yourself they're a pretty dang big kid now. Nothing prepared us for that transition. So let's talk about it!

New intro, who dis?

Really, this episode should be titled "Allergies are the woooooorst" (sung in the style of Jean Ralphio from Parks & Rec) But really, allergies can suck it. And that goes for all types of allergies. With it being springtime here in Michigan, we thought it would be a fun topic to talk about (IKR allergies, fun???) Listen to us ramble on about all things allergies and how we cope with them.

We have very weird relationships with imaginary play. On the one hand, we are blown away by our children's abilities to create this imaginary world, with all these imaginary characters and places, and scenarios. On the other hand, we kind of suck at imaginary play.. and dare I say, we kind of low key *hate* it? I know that for a lot of parents imaginary play is their strong suit and my god how I envy you. For us? We are just not those Moms. But our kids? They friggin' love imaginary play. How convenient for making content! 

Does being spontaneous after you have a kid even possible? Yes...but at what cost? Usually, your sanity. One thing we can all (maybe) agree on is that trying to be spontaneous after you've had a kid is borderline impossible. Let's discuss!

Can someone tell me when Easter became mini Christmas? Like, Easter shit is EVERYWHERE. Did we miss the memo? As the years have gone on, Easter has gotten bigger & bigger & bigger. And, dare I say.. weirder?!?! It's time to talk about Easter, ya'll! Join us, won't you?

Ah, nap time. You can't live without it, yet in so many instances you're forced against your will by a tiny human who still shits themselves to live without it. Before I had a kid, I always thought nap time was this magical time where I could finally be free and do whatever I wanted (which, let's be real is also nap) which-it can be- but I quickly learned that that is NOT always the case. The sad, sad reality is, you can't always depend on nap time. So let's talk about it, friends!

Doctor's visits are always a lot. My question is: Is there anywhere out there who actually enjoys going to the doctor? There are several things I need to be seen for, but I just. don't. want. to. do. it. And there's the striking difference between medical care during pregnancy versus the medical care during the postpartum period. Can we say "Mothers deserve better." ? Join us as we dive into all the weirdness that accompanies doctors visits!

I mean, need we say more? Daylight savings just happened where we live and it's always a point of contention in the parenting world, so we figured we'd talk about it!

I mean, where's the lie tho? Making Mom friends is HARD. Like, nearly impossible. And trying to make/maintain friendships with those who don't have kids, is even more impossible. So, let's keep it short & sweet and just get to talkin. about it!

One thing I definitely was not prepared for as a Mom was how stressful play dates can be. They can come with A LOT. And you usually just end up playing referee among a pack of rabid toddlers the entire time. Granted, that's not every time. When a play date goes smoothly it truly is *chef's kiss* but, as we all know, they can also be a perfect recipe for a meltdown disaster. Tune in and hear us talk about all the weirdness that comes with play dates!

As someone who literally hosted her daughter's birthday party yesterday, I can tell you that kid's birthday parties sure come with A LOT. The food, the decorations, the pressure for perfection, who the hell to invite, and not to mention the MESS. As I lay here among the chaos and havoc that was reeked upon my household yesterday, I just keep asking myself-why did I bother to clean at all? And why did we order 4 Costco pizzas?!?! It was WAY too much. Join us this week as we talk about all the weirdness that comes with kid's parties. 

Potty training. Where to even begin? No, like, seriously can anyone tell me where the f*&$ to start because I am LOST. All I know is, everyone's potty training journey looks different, and there's no one size fits all approach to it, either. All kids are different, and all kids learn to go on the potty in their own time. It's time we talked about it!

Have you ever just been going about your business, enjoying conversation with someone and BAM-they hit you out of nowhere with this question? It recently happened to one of our hosts, and we wanted to share out true and unfiltered feelings around this question, and how it can make women feel. To sum it up? Stop asking women when they're having kids. Thank you. 

We are so excited to have another amazing guest and Metro Detroit Momma on to talk about expectations with us! Meet Franki Bagade:Franki has over 20 years of experience in the world  of children with extra needs— non-traditional learning environments, camping and everything in between.  In the more traditional environment, Franki has worked all types of classrooms from special needs resource room to general education, pre-school through high school as a teacher consultant, resource room coordinator, and professional development trainer. Gifted in working with kids who struggle with age-expected tasks, social difficulties, focusing struggles and managing school. Described as a dynamic and creative consultant, skilled in “problem solving” and out-of-the-box solutions, she is excited to put her unique and specialized skills to work for you!Franki graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Elementary Education and Wayne State University with a MA in Special Education. Currently she is in the Masters of Social Work program through University of Kentucky. She lives with her husband Jeff and three children in West Bloomfield, Michigan.  | ReplyForward | 

Sometimes it feels like trying to keep things organized whilst having a child, is not only impossible but also pointless. And, as per usual we have no advice on how to make it any easier but we can certainly commiserate about how much it SUCKS. Throw a husband into the mix who refuses to put his dirty laundry actually IN the laundry basket, and it's all just downright unfair. Join us as we honestly just have a bitch fest about how much organizing is the worst. 

The amount of clothing my 2 year old has, is unseemly. The amount of clothing she had before she was even born, was borderline offensive. Trying to figure out sizes, styles, whether their onesies should have buttons or zippers (for the love of God buy onesies with zippers) ! Kids clothes comes with a lot. Like, A LOT. And this is just buying it. Don't even get us started on trying to organize it all. Well, actually it's too late and we got started on it and that's how this episode was born. Join us as we talk about all the weirdness that comes with trying to dress tiny humans, 

Both of your hosts turn 30 this year! And NGL it feels way weirder than either of us want to admit. So weird in fact that we did a whole episode on it! Entering a new decade of life certainly brings up a lot, especially as women & mothers. So join us as we talk about allllll the feelings we're feeling about turning 30. 

Ah, the unspoken weirdness that comes with enrolling your kid into some type of class. There's the trying to decide if and when they're ready for a class, what class they should take, and not to  mention the expenses that come with it. It's easy to already start to feel behind by not having your 1 year old taking soccer classes, but is there also such a thing as getting them started too early? This year we both went through enrolling our kiddos in classes for the first time, so as always, we have a lot to say about it. Join us as we talk about how weird kid's classes are!

Kicking off the new year right with an absolutely AMAZING guest! Meet Albiona Rakipi: Albiona Rakipi has over 20 years of experience working with children and families, first as an early childhood educator and currently as a pediatric speech and language pathologist.  She's best known for helping parents re-frame the way they interpret their child's behavior while reflecting on their parenting journey.  Her work has been published in, The Everymom, Hour Detroit, Metro Parent, The Motherload and Modern Parent. She was named a top writer on the topic of parenting in Medium. Additionally, she authors a popular weekly newsletter, Parenting Skimmed, where she provides insights and solutions to help you parent and live a better life. We were lucky enough to have her sit down with us and take a deep dive into the topic of "Mom Guilt"-specifically the unconscious beliefs we subscribe to as women and mothers that perpetuate those feelings of guilt. Join us!!

With the new year right around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to discuss just how weird resolutions are. Does anyone know how the whole "new year's resolutions" thing even got started? I know for me, most of my resolutions are abandoned by Feb. Maybe even earlier. We love the idea behind them; trying to grow, trying to be a better version of yourself, but it can also be a lot of pressure. Especially when you're trying to raise kids during a now 2 year long pandemic, and most days you are simply just trying to survive. So let it be known, if all you did this year was survive, we are so insanely proud of you. Join us as we talk about all the weirdness that comes with resolutions! 

One of us puts her Christmas decorations out on November 1st and the other one of us absolutely refuses to do so. Can you guess which one is which? The topic of when it's appropriate to put out your holiday decorations and start listening to Christmas music is a widely debated topic every year, so obvs we figured we should throw our two sense in as well! Also, spoiler alert: it's definitely Ashley who puts her Christmas s*** out on November 1st because she is an actual crazy person. 

Ah. The holidays. It's a time for fun, family, and usually being forced into a tradition or two that you can truly live without. Has anyone else ever tried to break out of some of the traditions you grew up with in order to try and create your own? It's not easy. And don't get us wrong, we love traditions! But we also love normalizing making your own traditions with your family unit. And we certainly love leaving behind family traditions that either involve toxic family members, or toxic traditions. Traditions, like the holidays can come with A LOT. So, let's talk about it! 

I believe there are 2 types of people when it comes to Christmas shopping. Those who have it done wayyyyyy in advance. And those who are standing in line for an hour on Christmas Eve trying to get every one done at the absolute last minute. Whatever way you slice it, Christmas shopping can be A LOT. There's a lot of pressure to get everyone the "perfect" gift and you can never leave anyone out. How do you navigate a new friend or relationship in your life and whether or not you get each other something? Do you get all your friends with kids gifts too?!?!?! The pressure can sometimes feel like it's going to crush you. So, let us ease your mind and make you laugh as we dive into the subject of Christmas shopping-Kids Are Weird style. Join us, won't you?