The Sweetest (and Toughest) Job

I think we can all agree that the past year has been a wild ride.  Friends, I feel I need to take a break from releasing new content and I'm not sure what that will look like.  What I'm realizing is that it's okay to take that pause and step back to reevaluate what I want the show to look like, what I want to produce and put my energy in to.On this episode I'm opening up on why I'm taking a pause with the podcast.  If you're feeling like you need a reset, pause or to reevaluate, I hope you find support and encouragement that that's okay! We all need to take a step back at times and give ourself space so we can grow into what's next.Wherever you are on your parenting journey, thank you for  exploring all the topics alongside me - I truly believe parenting is the toughest job but oh it can be so incredibly sweet.  If you haven't already, don't forget to hit subscribe so you know when we are back - see you soon friend thank you so much for listening to this podcast, it has been my true passion project!As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Alyson Premo is a 37-year-old mother to her 10-year-old son, and she's currently creeping up on 4.5 years of sobriety. Before becoming a Certified Professional Recovery/Life Coach, aka “The Sober Mom Coach,” she was in the Business Development field as a Senior Sales Specialist for a corporate wellness company called Preventure. Virgin Pulse has since acquired that company. She wanted to pursue her purpose in life which is to help mothers ditch the drink to become a more present parent and get out of the mom guilt cycle. Alyson is also the Founder of Sober Mom Tribe. Through her struggles and lack of connection with other sober moms, she created Sober Mom Tribe in July 2018. It's one thing to be sober, but it's a whole other level being a sober mom in a culture where wine and motherhood seem to go hand and hand. When she isn't helping others or being a taxi driver to her son's soccer practices and games, she enjoys reading, walks on the beach, and sunsets. You can learn more about her at www.sobermomcoach.comOn this episode Alyson very openly takes us through her journey to sobriety.  Alyson knows firsthand the challenges that can accompany living alcohol free in social settings and created a community and coaching business to help support Moms who want to live a sober life or are even just curious about what it means.  I truly believe this is an important conversation and is in no way meant to come with any judgement or nudging anyone to live a sober lifestyle (please note, I do not live my life alcohol free).  Instead, I hope this episode brings forth topics that are not often discussed and perhaps helps a Mama along the way.Highlights from the show include:Alyson's personal story of her journey to becoming now 4 1/2 years soberBreaking free from the “Mommy needs a drink” cultureReducing the stigma and judgement that comes with choosing to be sober in social situationsMaking changes doesn't have to be all or nothing - self checking your relationship with alcoholConnect with Alyson:IG: @sobermomcoach - Facebook: Sober as a Mother Podcast - Sober Mom Tribe WebsiteAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Somer is the Chief Content Officer and living proof of the results for Raising Families, an organization co-founded by her mother and step-father dedicated to transforming parents from exhausted managers of their to-do lists to inspired leaders of their family teams. Raising Families has helped hundreds of parents with children of all ages to engage more deeply and intentionally, identify and implement their values into daily life, and create a specific plan of action to raise children with the skills and confidence to be successful adults.Highlights from the episode include:The importance of defining what you want responsibility to look like in your householdHow to introduce responsibility actions to toddler ages 1-3 and ages 4+The mindset and framework to encourage responsibilityWhy rewards systems in association with responsibility is problematic In her downtime, Somer can be found laughing a little too loudly watching episodes of Schitt's Creek or occasionally designing homes for friends and family as she is a licensed architect (her career before joining Raising Families.) Somer lives in Southern California with her husband and 4-year-old son. Connect with Somer:IG: @family.life.coach Pintrest: Raising FamiliesWebsite: Raising FamiliesAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Kelly is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA and also a Perinatal Mental Health Certified professional. She knows firsthand how valuable the right support and resources can be and entered the mental health field to help others find healing too. Kelly offers support to expectant mothers from the moment they want to start a family and throughout the journey that lies ahead after birth. Kelly is a wife and a mom of two who enjoys hiking, listening to podcasts and having a good coffee.Highlights from the episode include:Checking in on your own mental health during pregnancy and postpartumPerinatal mental health diagnoses explained including postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum OCDDifferent ways postpartum mental health disorders may manifest themselvesPostpartum mental health in your spouse or partnerDifference between baby blues and mental health disordersOn this episode Kelly provides a wealth of information around perinatal mental health.  We discuss how you can self check in with yourself and the different ways that a mental disorder may present itself.  We talk about the shame and stigma around mental health, overcoming this and knowing it's okay and critically important to ask for help if you need it.Connect with Kelly:IG: @allthefeels.therapyFacebook: Kelly Rodriguez TherapyKelly Rodriguez Therapy

Ali Glinsky is a CAPPA Certified New Parent Educator. She's worked with Moms on Maternity, Jewish Federation of Silicon Valley and other organizations to create standalone and multi week physical and virtual events all with the goal of supporting mothers in a new way. She has seen first hand how a supported mother can thrive, which led her to launch virtual pandemic mom groups in March 2021 that educate and empower mothers and most importantly connect them, all virtually. She has two girls ages 2 and 4 and lives in the Bay Area with her family.Highlights from this episode include:Talking about postpartum care, real talk on what you need (and don't)The importance of postpartum supportConsiderations around how you can prepare and set up help postpartumAli's experience using postpartum doula careWhat postpartum Moms are experiencing right now - you are not aloneConnect with Ali:Instagram: @parentsirl Facebook As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

When Rosalie's son was four years old, he was attacked by the family dog which resulted in a below knee leg amputation.  This changed her son and the families life and now Rosalie is on a mission to advocate and educate.  Whether it's in person, at events across the country or social media, she consistently connects with other families and amputees.On this episode she is sharing her son Hunter's journey and what their family has been through over the years since the incident happened.  We talk about the meaning of resilience, how to help your child cope through trauma, going through a traumatic event as a parent and finding the positive and joy amidst huge life challenges.Highlights from the episode include:Helping a child cope with a traumatic eventNavigating emotions surrounding a traumatic experience as a parentHer son's experience getting his prosthetic and helping him adjust and cope through the processA discussion around resilience and how we think about the meaningThe need for parents to expose our kids more to people who may look different or act different or have disabilities to foster more understanding and inclusionTo learn more about the Mastaler family and connect with Rosalie:Rosalie Mastaler Website IG: @mastalerpartyof5 -Facebook: @MeetHunter211Email: Rosalie.Mastaler@gmail.comAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

On this episode, I wanted to do something a little different.  I have felt so honored to talk to the many wonderful guests I've had on the show but I also realize how many there have been! The content is dense and wonderful.  On this episode I wanted to highlight 5 things I have learned from this podcast.  These are 5 overarching topics to which there are several relevant podcast episodes.  If any of these topics speak to you and you want more information and color, please do scroll through and listen to the many wonderful episodes available.As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobI would love to hear any comments, feedback or ideas on episodes and topics you'd like to hear - please reach out at any time!Visit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Wannessa believes in the power of knowledge, community, connection, and healing.  She knows that each of us has the ability to heal, to grow, and to shine within ourselves, as well as the ability to create the relationships and lifestyle of our dreams. It requires connecting with ourselves to access the keys to unlocking our inner knowing and to activating a new height of transparency and authenticity. She brings her own embodiment of healing & sage wisdom that  comes from her heart, her personal experience, and twenty years supporting children and families in the realms of public, private, and non-profit education. Birth Story Medicine is a reflective modality dear to her heart. She truly believes in the sacred space needed to process childbirth. Through a birth story listening session, it is always her intention to guide and support the story teller towards a deeper understanding of themselves & a greater sense of peace. She welcomes you to visit www.birthstorylistening.comHighlights from the episode include:Preparing for birth, the unexpected and uncontrollableBirth story listening explained and who it can be helpful forHow Wannessa found her calling as a Birth story listenerThe importance of taking care of our own mental health so we can show up for our childrenConnect with Wannessa:Wannessa BadgerBirth Story ListeningIG: @wannessabadgerAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Ellanee Wilson is a former English teacher turned certified sleep coach. She began her journey as a sleep coach after having her first daughter and experiencing firsthand how difficult the transition into motherhood is and how a large part of that difficulty is related to sleep. She founded Sleep Coach Mom in 2019 and has been on a mission to not only help families sleep better, but to help moms feel supported during their journey as a parent. She does one-on-one coaching, but also holds virtual support groups for women discussing areas of motherhood well beyond sleep. She loves what she does and wants all moms to feel empowered and free of judgement when working with her. Highlights from the episode include:Advice on toddlers climbing out of the crib and transitioning to big kid bedNight wakings and the difference between nightmares and night terrorsThinking through reasons for a regression or night wakingsEarly risersSleep Coach Mom WebsiteFacebook: Sleep Coach Mom - Team Sleep - IG: @sleep.coach.momOK to wake ClockHatch Sound Machine and Wake ClockAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Brandi Frazier is a passionate high energy Mama, Wife and Master Educator who is on a mission to empower women and teach them how to advocate for themselves. After a traumatic post pregnancy complication experience Brandi created @beeempoweredmama which is an organization that provides online resources, workshops and community for all Mamas to unite!Highlights from this episode include:Her personal journey and struggle with prenatal care and how she advocated for herselfThe importance of doing your research during pregnancy and in preparing for birth and postpartumHaving a partner that knows your wishes to help you advocate during labor and deliveryHer powerful story of advocating for herself postpartum which saved her lifeBee Empowered Mama:www.BeeEmpoweredMama.comIG:  @beeempoweredmamaFacebook: @beeempoweredmamaAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Jennifer Blossom is a boy mom of two, occupational therapist, and CEO/Founder of Blossoming Moms.  Her mission is to unravel the “hot-mess Mom” stigma and helping Moms live with more joy and peace in the everyday of motherhood.  On this episode, Jennifer and I are talking about simple ways to help live the everyday of Motherhood with calm, purpose, intention and with less pressure to do it all perfectly.Highlights from the episode include:When the overwhelm of Motherhood is all-consuming, taking a step back to make changesReclaiming identity in MotherhoodTime management and prioritization tips and mentality strategiesSimple shifts to make Motherhood more manageable Blossoming Moms is a digital wellness brand that helps overwhelmed moms simplify motherhood using healthy habits and simple strategies. Jennifer's desire is to help moms break-free from survival mode so they can live with more meaning, fulfillment, and joy in their everyday lives. Jennifer is also the host of the top-rated mom podcast, The Blossoming Moms Show, and lives in a little fishing town with her husband and sons just south of Anchorage, Alaska. blossomingmoms.coIG @blossomingmoms_co Facebook: Blossoming Moms Pintrest: Blossoming MomsApps Mentioned:CalmSoul SpaceAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Amy is cofounder of The Courage Brand, a company dedicated to instilling courage and confidence in our future women.  Under the Courage Brand is the ENTRE Girls Leadership Academy.  Amy talks about the Academy's mission and we discuss the importance of encouraging confidence, leadership and empowerment in our girls.Highlights from the episode include:Why Amy and Kelly founded The Courage Brand with a goal of instilling courage and confidence in our future womenHow we can think about encouraging courage in our daughtersTearing down girls' assumptions of weaknessReframing social media as perfectly imperfectHow we can also encourage our sons to grow up to be respectful, inclusive and supportive menAs a former online TV host, Amy will make you laugh until you cry and find a way to make every #momlife moment humorous - even on the days when adulting seems way too hard. Amy has an award-winning sales and leadership background of coaching and managing very dynamic teams. As a coach, Amy has built her career on bringing out the best in everyone around her and helping each person she touches perform at their best, and believe in themselves. As a coFounder of Give Her Courage, Amy has committed her life's work to helping women know their worth and break the paradigm that comes with age.IG: @givehercourage.  Courageous Conversations Podcast Give Her Courage Website

Nena has been a doula since 2018 and a registered nurse since 2015. She is currently working with clients virtually after taking some time off because of work, COVID, and being pregnant herself. She recently started training to become a breastfeeding consultant. Nena lives in Dayton, OH and is Mom to a three month old baby girl. Highlights from this episode include:Virtual Doula services in the time of CovidHow to prepare for birth confidentlyLetting go of the comparisons with birthPostpartum care and the importance of caring for yourself after birthBaby blues vs Postpartum DepressionBirth in the time of CovidFollow Nena on IG: @mommynmellcEmail Nena at: mommynmellc@gmail.comAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Becoming a mother is life altering and really does lead to a rebirth in Moms.  Vered shares her personal journey and how she made her way back to music through motherhood and how she is now helping families connect with their babies through the magic of music.Highlights from this episode include:Why lullabies are important for both babies and parentsUsing your voice and music to sootheWhy you should give mirroring vocals a tryA fun tip to help get you through the “witching hour”!Connect with Vered:www.babyintune.comwww.babycrashcourse.com IG: @babyintune Facebook: Baby In TuneYou Tube: Baby In TuneTo listen to the music:SpotifyAmazonItunesVered is a musician, music therapist, founder of Baby in Tune, and mom of 3. She teaches parents of babies how to use music to speak their baby's language, get more sleep, and have more fun. When she had her first baby eleven years ago, she struggled with nursing issues, felt overwhelmed and utterly exhausted all the time. In a moment of frustration she pushed herself to sing to her baby. Through the immediate soothing that she and her baby BOTH felt, and the connection that developed between them, Baby in Tune was born. Vered uses her natural ability to write songs that give words to the experience of parents and babies, combined with her passion for blending music therapy techniques with concepts from psychology, to help thousands of parents feel like they know what they're doing. When she is not leading classes or training instructors, Vered can be found lecturing at conferences such as Zero to three, and doing staff trainings at organizations such as Sanctuary for Families. Her three award winning albums for families can be found on Spotify/Amazon/itunes. She lives in Brooklyn with her husband and three kids, who brought her back to music through motherhood.As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Hayley Augusta is the host of "No Sex in the Suburbs," a podcast dedicated to everything that happens after happily ever after. She is married and has two little boys, one is neurotypical and the other has autism and hyperlexia. Hayley left behind her career in media when her son was diagnosed to focus on her family and riding the wave of an ASD diagnosis and all it entails. Hayley believes in keeping it real and having fun. She lives with her family in the deep burbs of Los Angeles, CA. On this episode, Hayley openly shares what it was like navigating specialists and opinions that ultimately led to her son being diagnosed with autism and hyperlexia.  She shares their challenges and what worked for their family, we also discuss how to be a friend to another parent with a child that has an ASD diagnosis.Highlights from the episode include:Advocating for your childHayley's experience trying to find the right evaluations, diagnosis and therapyUnderstanding Autism and the diagnosisHow to be a friend and supportive to a parent of a child with special needsTo connect with Hayley follow her on IG @nosexinthesuburbsListen to her Podcast No Sex In The Suburbs wherever you get your podcasts.As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Dana is a mom to four, when her youngest didn't sleep for the first two years of his life, she finally found help with a sleep consultant, it took five days for him to learn to sleep through the night.  This changed everything for Dana! Now she is helping other families find solutions to sleep challenges with their children.  Dana is also creator and host of the Winning at The Mom Life Podcast.  On today's show Dana shares some of the common mistakes parents make when it comes to their children's sleep so other parents can avoid these challenges.Highlights from the episode include:Tips to help kids 5+ years relax before going to bedCommon misconceptions about babies, children and sleepThe importance of awake time windows and how to think about changing them as your baby growsCommon reasons some children are early risers and/or waking up throughout the nightRest Assured Consulting : www.liveandrest.comVisit the website to Download: 4 Steps to Reducing the OverwhelmPodcast: Winning at the Mom LifeIG: @thedanastoneRelax Kids : Meditation Turtle As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Jessica is a mom to five beautiful children including her two oldest, a set of twins.  Her road to starting their family was an extremely difficult one filled with infertility diagnosis, pregnancy loss, immense disappointment and uncertainty.  She shares her journey and experiences through it all in hopes of helping other Moms out there feel less alone in their journey and to take away some of the stigma that surrounds certain areas of infertility.Highlights from the episode include:Her diagnosis, experience and treatment with Endometriosis and other infertility diagnosesMoving forward after pregnancy lossHer experience with IVF and how her family grew after the birth of her twinsHer goals as Mom to five to raise explorers and adventurous kidsJessica is a wife and mom of five from Knoxville, Tennessee. Jessica enjoys living an active life and exploring with her family, both locally and further afield. Though her instagram account @raising_explorers, Jessica encourages other families to build stronger families through shared experiences.Connect with Jessica:Raising ExplorersBlog Post on "The Road to Our Twins"IG: @raising_explorers

After having her son, Erica Davis was surprised when her body started physically changing after she stopped breastfeeding.  She decided she needed to focus on her fitness and get back in shape but couldn't find any comfortable clothing to wear that she could feel strong and confident in.  She decided then to create her own and founded her company Imperfect Mommers.Erica and I chat about juggling all the roles - Mom, Wife, Entrepreneur, Working Full-Time and holding it all together.Highlights from the episode include:Her postpartum journey that led her to start her company Imperfect MommersHow she juggles working full time, helping with remote learning, being mom, wife and entrepreneurHer advice from one busy Mom to others on managing it allErica Phillips Davis is Owner of Imperfect Mommers and Co-Owner of Feet for $5ive.She is a Charleston, SC native and has been living in Charlotte, NC for 7 years now. She graduated from Lander University in upstate South Carolina and served 8 years in the US Army Reserves. She is married to her husband, Laval and a mother of one son, Chandler. She has 2 dogs, Bliss a boxer/lab mix and Blanco a French Bulldog. She is a working mom as a Sr. Logistics Analyst at a corporate company. She loves spending time with my family, working out and traveling.Her goal with her businesses is to find ways to help women, specifically mothers, by making their lives a little easier. With Imperfect Mommers, she provides great quality apparel at affordable prices. She also offers the SnapBack Box with home workout equipment for those that are unable to get to the gym. She is working hard to grow her business and get the name out there.https://www.imperfectmommers.comhttps://www.feetfor5ive.comIG: @ImperfectMommersFacebook: Imperfect Mommers

In 2020 we released 37 new and original episodes on the podcast.  Thank you so much for listening! Sharing the podcast with others and leaving a rating or review, following us on social media - these all mean so much to me and is the fuel I use to keep creating and producing the show.  I absolutely love any and all feedback so don't hesitate to DM me or email me with any thoughts, likes, dislikes or ideas on topics you'd like to hear.I want to ask - If you have a personal experience you would be willing to share, I would LOVE to hear from you! My goal for future episodes is to focus on more stories from parents that are relatable, educational and help us all feel a little less alone in the magnitude of raising children.Now lets chat for a minute about the crazy year that we just said goodbye to.  We can all agree that 2020 was nutty! To live through the current pandemic has been challenging and flat out exhausting.  I want to first acknowledge you, Mama for making it to welcoming 2021 and no matter how messy it was at time, you are still and are always a good Mom.  I want to point out to every Mom listening is you have undoubtedly become a stronger Mom, a different Mom.  Greeting 2021, you have the resilience and the now knowledge of how to keep powering on.  Sure, some days are really rough.  But there are also tons of moments and days sprinkled in where relationships are nurtured and you get a few more squeezes from your little one, a few more peeks at how your kids interact as siblings, maybe the pressure to be out and about and that you have to be doing it all when you're recovering postpartum has been relieved in a good way.  Maybe you aren't spending hours upon hours carpooling to activities.  Maybe you get to spend some extra time with your kids as you find yourself needing to work from home - and everyone is home.  I believe there are golden moments that can be found that have been created out of a tough year.  In my humble opinion, these are the lessons and reminders I want to carry forward to 2021.  For any Mama that needs to hear this - Remind yourself as we march into the new year that you got this! Especially on the extra tough days that seem like a never-ending uphill climb.  You are strong, you are the absolute best mama to your kiddos.  Give yourself all the grace in that these times are different, they are unique and unique to different families navigating the changed world around us.  I am so appreciative for all who have joined me along the way with this podcast - it truly is my passion project and my hope is that it will help, inspire, motivate, encourage and send love to Moms out there.  I feel it, friends, 2021 is going to be a good year.

Lindsay Ford is a parenting mentor and the author of The Positive Parenting Framework. She helps moms interpret what their child is really saying when they act out and gives them the strategies they need to restore a sense of calm and cooperation back into their homes. You can find out more about Lindsay and how she can support you at theparentingframework.comHighlights from this episode include:The difference between tantrums and meltdowns and how parents can interpret themTools and strategies to diffuse tantrum and meltdown situationsWhat to do when a tantrum or meltdown happens at home versus out in publicThe root of tantrums and meltdowns and why they happenConnect with Lindsay via IG @lindsaythinkfeeldecideAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Samantha is a speech-language pathologist with over 10 years of experience. She's also  a mother of three, with a preschooler, a toddler, and an infant.  In this episode Samantha and I talk about language development in babies and toddlers, the milestones to look out for and when you might want to seek a professionals help if you are concerned about speech development.Highlights from this episode include:A discussion about language milestones during your child's first few yearsDevelopment to consider as your child growsHow to recognize whether your child might need some extra help with speechKnowing it's okay that your kids might develop at different rates  Samantha started Toddler Talking Tips to give parents the confidence and knowledge they need to teach their toddlers to talk. She specializes in teaching parents simple but powerful techniques that they can use in their everyday activities.  Samantha holds a certificate of clinical competence from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) and is licensed by the state of New Jersey as a speech pathologist. Her original research is published in the American Journal of Speech Language Pathology. Samantha believes there is power in communication, in scientific research, and in making toddlers laugh. She believes that, with a little guidance, parents are the best people to develop their toddlers' language skills.Toddler Talking Tips Discount Code For The Want It Way: “SweetestPod” https://learn.toddlertalkingtips.com/courses/wantitwayIG: Toddler Talking TipsFacebook: My Talking ToddlerAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Nicole Miller is a working mom who also runs a Health and Mindset coaching business helping women heal their relationship with food and with their body. She passionately believes that life is too short to be lived obsessing and feeling guilt over food and hating your body. She believes we must heal the beliefs that tell us we are not enough and that our body defines our worth.  On this episode, we talk about the importance of a positive body image and letting go and breaking free of the pressures to look a certain way so you can live freely.  We talk about choosing self-love and the importance of modeling positive self image to your children.  Highlights from this episode include:We talk about the societal pressure to “bounce back” after babyRecognizing the pressures to look a certain way and learning to break free from feeling inadequate Choosing self-compassion and love over self-criticism to start healing body imageBody image issues related to pregnancy and postpartum and how to cultivate self-acceptanceNicole is the founder of “The Life I Crave”. Nicole helps women transform their relationships with food and their body. As someone who overcame years of chronic dieting and negative self image, she has a deep passion for helping other women discover their own true worth so they can live from a place of joy and confidence. Between coaching and her 10+ years working as a counselor Nicole has helped hundreds of people transform their lives. Nicole is a mom, an avid Crossfitter and a wife. She enjoys the outdoors, cooking and traveling with her family.  Instagram FacebookAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Covid depression and fatigue are affecting so many parents, Jillian discusses how we can build and foster resilience and shares her personal journey to finding balance in motherhood.Jillian is a mother, founder of "Resilient Families," and your pandemic-parenting Fairy Godmother! With years of experience as a pediatric massage therapist, student music therapist, and GroovaRoo™ Babywearing Dance instructor, she's here to help new and growing families build their resilience muscle and thrive through the modalities of touch, sound, and movement...all for just $25. Pandemic parenting is hard. Jillian is on a mission to ensure that we don't do it alone.Highlights from this episode include:Fostering resilience through difficult times including during the current pandemicFinding resilience through the three modalities of touch, sound and movementMeeting needs for connection and support both for your children and you at the same timeJillian's personal journey and steps she took to finding balance and resilience in motherhoodOFFER: Get $10 OFF your first purchase (including gift cards) when you enter the code PODCAST at checkout! Next 6-week series for pre-crawlers begins December 2nd. Connect with Jillian:Grow Resilient Families. IG: @growresilientfamiliesFacebook: Grow Resilient Families

At the end of July in 2016 my water broke in the middle of the night when I was just 7 1/2 months pregnant.  I delivered our son six weeks early in a thankfully uncomplicated birth.  On this episode, I'm sharing our personal experience with preterm birth.As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Tracy Poizner is a parenting coach and the host of the weekly Essential Stepmom Podcast. She is a biological mom and a stepmom and has been through it all, from long-distance parenting to parental alienation, legal difficulties, mental health issues, total loss of contact and full-time physical custody. After finding the light at the end of the tunnel, she wanted to share her experiences with others who were still behind her on the same path. Tracy has a special perspective on emotional healing and how to meet our own personal needs as stepmoms in the everyday chaos of this challenging lifestyle. She helps stepmoms and families minimize conflict and disruption in their lives and find calm, peace, harmony, gratitude, respect and affection and achieve justice in the face of divorce and custody conflicts. Find out more about Tracy at essentialstepmom.com.Highlights from this episode include:What if you don't love your step kids?Blending families - navigating step kids and having children of your ownDealing with differences in parenting after divorceThe emotional journey kids go through when they gain a step-parentStaying grounded and finding positivity during relational transitionsConnect with Tracy:FacebookInstagramtwitter.com/TracyPoiznerAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Often times busy Moms put themselves last and what suffers is their health and wellness.  In this episode Dr. Orlena Karek talks about creating healthy habits and systems to bring your health and wellness as a Mom forward. We also talk about strategies to get your kids eating healthy and eating well - something on so many parents' minds.Dr Orlena Kerek (MBChB from the University of Bristol, UK) trained as a pediatric doctor. She is now a family health advocate, empowerment mentor, pioneer, author, educator and mother. She helps families create healthy habits they love so they can all feel fit and fabulous without having to think about itHighlights from this episode include:Creating habits and systems for healthy living as a busy MomDifferentiating between discipline in your lifestyle and healthy habitsThe four healthy pillars to integrate into your lifeA conversation around how to approach kids that are picky eatershttps://www.drorlena.comFit and Fabulous at 40 and Beyond Podcast

Chef Kibby is a professional chef and culinary instructor with over 25 years in the food industry.  He is also a biological, foster, and adoptive dad who seeks to use his brand, Cookin' with Kibby, to show other parents how to use the shared act of cooking and eating with their kiddos as a way to build deeper relationships, stronger attachments, and more resilient young people.  Highlights from this episode include:Thinking about cooking with your kids as a tool for connection and to help kids feel loved, safe, valued, accepted and accomplishedSimple and easy ways to invite your kids into the kitchen with you and simple tasks they can help withSocial and emotional benefits of cooking with your kiddosTaking the intimidation away and rethinking kids in the kitchenCookin with KibbyFacebook: Cookin With KibbyInstagram: Cookin With KibbyTwitter: Cookin With KibbyYouTube: Cookin With KibbyAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Alison Brown is a homeschooling mom of five. She started studying emotional intelligence ten years ago in order to teach her kids about their feelings. When she had to deal with three bouts of prenatal depression, she realized that she needed better techniques to handle her own emotional ups and downs. Her research led her to develop the Power Emotions system to help people get in touch with the healthy forms of anger, sadness, and fear - instead of trying to suppress them - and use their power to experience more calm, confidence, and happiness. Highlights from this episode include:Her experience with Perinatal mood disorder through three out of the five of her pregnanciesDiscussing the warning signs of prenatal depression Differentiating a mood disorder from the stressors of parenting and typical pregnancy symptomsManaging feelings and emotions as a MomDiscussing the roots of “mom rage” You can join her upcoming FREE challenge designed to help parents transform frustrating moments with their kids into opportunities for love and connection in her Power Emotions Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/poweremotions/. https://alisonpbrown.com/invite.big.htmlAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

When Barby Jimenez's son was just 7, he confronted her about the way he thought his Mom was parenting which set her on the path to find a different way to parent her children.  While on her journey to transform her parenting from one of control to one of connection built on authenticity and inner inquiry, she decided that her new mission was to support parents and help guide them on their path towards Conscious Parenting. She was trained and certified by Dr. Shefali Tsabary in her Conscious Parenting method and has been living her dream of coaching and guiding parents on their journey.Highlights from the episode include:Recognizing that your children are different than you and working through how to parent a child very different than yourselfParenting from a calming center, moving away from the yelling and fight or flight approachPerspective and advice on how to navigate if you parent differently than your spouse or partnerHow to take steps to shift the way that you parentDr. Shefali's theory on “conscious parenting” explainedBarby and her husband have two children, a son who is 14 and daughter who is 17.  After earning her Bachelors in Elementary Education and Masters in Reading Education from FIU, she taught Kindergarten and First grade in the public and charter school setting for eight years. When her eldest was born in 2003, she decided to stay at home with her children for several years. Later in 2009, she founded Natural Beginnings Homeschool, a home-based early childhood program incorporating nature, play and social emotional development focused on the whole child. Connect with Barby on IG: @conscious_parent_coach_educateOn Facebook: @livingconnectedBarby Jimenez As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Wendy Ng is a Dance and Movement Coach who guides women to live consciously and confidently using mindful movement and dance through her signature program, Moving into Joy. Highlights from this episode include:Prioritizing taking care of yourself as MomHow to think about movement during pregnancy amidst your body going through tremendous changeSetting attainable goals and amounts of time to get movingHow exercise and movement can look different in different pregnancies and postpartum recoveriesSetting your priority to feeling good during postpartum recovery instead of the emphasis on looking goodPassionate about movement, Wendy holds a BSc in Kinesiology and has trained in various forms of dance, Muay Thai kickboxing, and yoga. Wendy uses her experience in movement and a combination of mental and physical strategies to help her clients shift their thinking, reconnect with their intuition, and build their confidence. Prior to starting her business, Wendy worked 10+ years as an occupational therapist, helping clients adapt to change and live independently doing the things most important to them. In her free time, you can find Wendy hanging out with her 3 kids and husband playing board games, having family paint nights, or being a chef at home.IG @simplynaturallywendywww.thewendyng.comGrab her Free 5 minute morning routineFacebook: Wendy NgAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Michelle Mintz, M.S., CCC-SLP is the Personal Baby Bloomer from Baby Blooming Moments, helping parents make everyday experiences brighter.  In this episode we discuss simple ways parents can establish connections with their children starting when they are just babies.  We discuss the challenge of balancing screen time for both adults and children and we chat about her children's book All Done Binky that parents can read to their young child to help transition to getting rid of the pacifier.Highlights from this episode include:The importance of establishing eye connection with your baby and suggestions for when you can take opportunity to do soTools and suggestions for ways parents can establish and foster connections with their baby or toddlerStrategies to balance adult screen time when parentingHow to use the screen time your child has in an enriching wayMichelle's book on getting rid of the pacifier and when you should think about taking it away Michelle telecoaches those who raise babies and toddlers to apply her pro-active strategies during everyday routines to help enhance brain connections, encourage early language development and enrich attachments. Scientific research has proven that the first 5 years of life are so crucial for stimulating brain cells that haven't formed and are ready to be nurtured. While many factors influence brain development, HOW people interact with their babies and toddlers have the most significant impact. Her goal is to turn everyday experiences into brighter beginnings.Baby Blooming MomentsAll Done Binky: Book to help facilitate getting rid of the pacifier for children ages 6 months-3 yearsYouTubeIG: Baby Blooming MomentsFacebook: Baby Blooming Moments

As parents, we all have moments where our child displays erratic, emotional, out of control behavior.  But when do you know if this behavior warrants a diagnosis from a psychological or medical professional?  Amelia Bowler is a writer, artist and behaviour consultant. She's the owner of Creative Connected Parenting and on this episode we are discussing how to identify when you should get help for your child's behavior.  We also discuss what Opposition Defiant Disorder, an area she specializes in, and when a diagnosis for your child is appropriate and when it could potentially hurt. Highlights from this episode include:Identifying when you should get help for your child's behaviorWhen a diagnosis on behavior is appropriate and when it can hurtExplanation of Opposition Defiant DisorderSteps parents can take in getting help when they are experiencing difficult behavior in their childHow we as parents can approach a difficult behavior situationAs a child, Amelia was diagnosed as “gifted” but struggled to stay organized and meet expectations at school. She resolved to become a classroom teacher, so she could help learners like herself.  She never stopped asking questions about the “WHY” of behaviour, and looking for creative new ways to teach. After earning a Master's Degree in Applied Disability Studies with a specialization in Applied Behaviour Analysis, Amelia also gained her credential as a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst.  Her mission is to help families build empathy and cooperation.Through her experience as a mother to two high-spirited boys and working as a behaviour consultant in a multi-disciplinary clinic, Amelia learned to infuse her clinical expertise with compassion, playfulness and perspective.  She lives in Toronto, writing, painting and teaching, using art and creativity to bring families closer together.www.ameliabowler.comBook: The Parent's Guide to Oppositional Defiant Disorder - Your Questions AnsweredConnect with Amelia on Instagram @ameliabehaviourAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Pelvic dysfunction is a very common result after giving birth whether you deliver vaginally or via c-section but it is just not talked about enough! Dr. Amanda Olson is the President and Chief Clinical Officer of Intimate Rose where she develops pelvic health products and education and authored the book Restoring the Pelvic Floor For Women.  She is passionate about empowering women and men with pelvic health issues including pelvic pain, incontinence, and pre and postpartum issues. Amanda shares her shocking story of how she sustained an injury prior to having children which changed her mind about the PT she wanted to practice. She decided to become a pelvic health PT and in this episode we are talking all about what pelvic health is, what to look out for after giving brith and ways you can heal.Highlights from the episode include: Normalizing the conversation around pelvic health - what is it, who is affected, what you can do if you are suffering Story of how Amanda decided to become a pelvic health PT - this will surprise youSymptoms and physical changes that could be a result of pelvic dysfunctionTools you can use to help you heal from pelvic dysfunction if you are suffering from pain or discomfort in you pelvic floor, pain with intercourse, pain in your tailbone and other ailmentsDr. Olson earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Pacific University in 2005, and a Doctorate Degree in Physical Therapy from Regis University in 2008, graduating as a member of the Jesuit National Honor Society. She is holds a Certification of Achievement in pelvic floor physical therapy (CAPP-PF) throughthe APTA, and the Pelvic Floor Practitioner Certification (PRPC) through the Herman and Wallace Pelvic Institute. She is also a certified Stott Pilates instructor and RRCA certified running coach, which she finds useful in curating treatment approaches.Intimate Rose WebsiteConnect with Amanda on IG @intimaterose Facebook @intimateroseTwitter @intimateroseTo find a PT in your area:American Academy of Physical Therapy Pelvic Health TherapistPelvic GuruIntimate Rose Directory: email support@intimaterose.comAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

Hi Friends! I am so thrilled to be back behind the mic kicking off Season 3 of The Sweetest and Toughest Job Podcast! I wanted to start with a solo episode, I debated doing this but wanted to lay it all out on the table.  Like so many of you out there listening, the months since the pandemic changed the world and how we live have been filled with ups, downs, highs, lows, lots of emotions and lots of those sweet and tough moments this podcast aims to celebrate.  My intention with this brief solo episode is to explain why the pause in the podcast has been a little longer than I intended, to express my feelings and sentiments on parenting and motherhood during a very challenging time.  I wanted to share what our family is personally experiencing with our three children: our oldest in Kindergarten but remote learning from home, our middle who just started preschool in person (wearing masks while attending), and our youngest who has spent the second part of her first year in "quarantine" during this pandemic.I hope that Moms and parents out there can feel a little less alone in whatever they are going through right now.  Even if your experience parenting through this trying time is completely different from mine, this is all hard and finding support systems wherever you can is so helpful.  If you are a mama out there and are feeling all the feels, you aren't alone.  This is a hard time to be pregnant, to be postpartum and to parent.  Many of us have lost a lot of support systems and friends and the infrastructure and schedules we used to keep.  You're not alone mama.  Thank you so much for being here and listening to the podcast.  It is near and so dear to my heart and I hope this season brings you tidbits of information, motivation, comfort, a few laughs and perhaps a few tears too which is all okay.As always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

As the creator of Gluten-Free MARCKS The Spot, Jennifer helps Moms and families fall in love with their gluten-free life.  Having Celiac Disease and a gluten-intolerance in her family, she knows exactly what families are going through when trying to navigate gluten-free living and how to empower children to make healthy choices when they have food allergies.  On this episode, Jennifer and I chat about:Her personal journey that led to her family living a gluten free lifestyle and her path to becoming a health coachThe basics of what gluten is, what celiac disease is and the common foods they are found inTips to help you navigate a transition to gluten free living or transition when your child has a food allergyHow to empower your children to make healthy choices when they are faced with allergies, an intolerance or celiac diseaseJennifer's mission is to help families ditch the overwhelm so you can have coffee with friends, lunch with the girls and take that beach vacation without wondering how you will manage dietary restrictions.  When Jennifer is not whipping up a new gluten-free treat, you can find her sneaking off to read a good book, going for a walk or snuggling up with her family for games or possibly binge-watching Netflix.Visit Jennifer at her website Gluten-Free MARCKS The SpotConnect with her on Facebook at Gluten Free MARCKS The SpotJoin her Facebook Group for Moms HEREConnect on Instagram @MarcksJenniferFollow on Pintrest at Gluten Free Marcks the SpotGrab her cheat Sheet How to Save Money Being Gluten-FreeAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, guest contact info and blog posts.Thank you for listening!

At some point during baby's first year of life, it will come time to introduce solids to your little one.  Where do you start? This can be an overwhelming and intimidating thing to navigate! Priscila Cleary, founder and lead facilitator at Baby to Table Nutrition is chatting with me today about baby led weaning and introducing and transitioning your little one to solids.Priscila is a Registered Dietitian whose focus is on child and family nutrition. She completed her dietetics training both here in the US, and in Brazil where she is originally from. She also earned a Masters' degree in Nutrition from Florida State University. She creates digital resources and online programs for parents and caregivers, to cut through all of the nutrition noise and decrease the overwhelming stress of feeding little ones. She is passionate about helping parents raise happy little eaters through joyful and confident feeding. At home her life is also all about feeding babies and toddlers. She and her husband have two small children - a 6 months old and a 2 year old. She loves dancing (especially Zumba!), traveling, cooking, and watching good movies. She usually spends her days sharing life with her little ones, and keeping her two big furry babies from eating the food left behind.  Connect with Priscila at her website Baby to Table Nutrition.On Facebook at Baby to Table NutritionOn Instagram @babytotablenutrition2Access her Free Quick Start Guide to SolidsAs always, we would love to continue the conversation with you on our social media on Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest Job or on Instagram @sweetestandthoughestjobVisit The Sweetest and Toughest Job website for additional episodes, guest contact, resources and our blog.Thank you for listening!

Jen Brazeal was an elementary school teacher when she decided her passion was in photography and she was ready to make the leap into doing that full time.  She left her career and and started her own photography business which she quickly grew into a very successful endeavor.  After having her third baby she decided to switch gears again to teach others what she had learned in starting and growing her own business.  On this episode, Jen and I are talking about making that leap and how she now balances working her business and growing it with being a Mom to three young children.  Highlights from the episode include:Redefining the word "balance" as a Mom; relying on things you consider gainers rather than drainersLiving the "Unhurried Life" - the name of her podcast and mantraHow she transitioned to a mostly screen free family with three young childrenRe-thinking how you do laundry - it could help you be unhurried!Embracing your passions and taking a leap in your lifeJen likes long walks (with her double bob) grommet cuisine (with her crockpot) and beautiful things (phone pics of her kids)!  In her past life she was an elementary teacher turned photographer, after her 3rd babe came into the world she switched gears again, funny how that keeps happening in life, to podcaster and online educator!  Sharing with mama's how to slow down, get all the laundry done and live as the best version of herself!Connect with Jen by visiting her website https://jbrazeal.com/and on Instagram @jenbrazealGrab the Unhurried Life Starter Kit from Jen!As always, we would love to continue the conversation with you on our Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit https://www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com/ for additional episodes, blog posts, guest contact info and resources.Thank you for listening!

The journey to motherhood is sometimes not an easy, straight path.  There can be road blocks, bumps along the way, heartbreak and disappointment.  On today's episode I'm talking with Claibourne Jordan, Mom to three, wife and Matilda Jane Trunk Keeper who was a surrogate for her cousin, gifting her and her husband the joy of becoming parents.Claibourne had always said she wanted to have four children, but her third sealed the deal that her and her husband felt their family was complete However, she ended up having a fourth because in her words, she was lucky enough to be a surrogate for her cousin. Claibourne and her family live outside of Atlanta in Madison, Georgia on the family farm. They have a variety of animals and hobbies that keep them busy at home. She has been a Matilda Jane Trunk Keeper for almost 5 years. Matilda Jane offers clothes for girls and women and operates through online sales and in home trunk shows. She works with a team of 30 amazing ladies to help them run their own boutique businesses too. Highlights from this episode include:Her journey to become a surrogate for her cousinWhat it was like for her family of five to experience surrogacyHer beautiful birth storyWhat the overall experience was like for her and her familyConnect with Claibourne on Instagram @matildajanewithclaibourne and on Facebook at Claibourne Jordan, Matilda JaneAs always, we would love to continue the conversation with you on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob or on Facebook at The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, blog, guest contact and resources.

Jayne Havens, founder of Snooze Fest, is a certified sleep consultant specializing in infant and toddler sleep. Jayne supports parents through the sleep training process and together they get their children sleeping through the night. In addition to supporting families one on one, Jayne also created the Center for Pediatric Sleep Management. Through CPSM, Jayne provides a comprehensive certification program for those looking to become certified to work as sleep consultants. There is nothing better than helping families to teach their children healthy sleep habits!On this episode Jayne and I specifically focus on Infant sleep during the often challenging Fourth Trimester when sleep can be elusive!  Highlights from this episode include:At what point you can consider sleep coaching for your infantNapping expectations and tipsSwaddling suggestions and tipsTransitioning your baby out of the swaddleTiming for transitioning baby out of your room and into their own roomWhat to consider if you are interested in becoming a sleep coachTo connect with Jayne, visit her website The Snooze FestInterested in her course on becoming a Certified Sleep Consultant visit The Center for Pediatric Sleep Management.Connect with her on Instagram and Facebook: IG: @snoozefestbyjaynehavensFacebook: Snooze Fest By Jayne HavensAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on social media on Facebook at The Sweetest and Toughest Job. or on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob.Visit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, resources, blog and guest contact information.

It is no secret that parenting is hard! Sometimes as parents, we react in certain ways that later we feel guilty about.  Maybe yelling too much, losing patience easily, frustrated with the way our kids behave and act.  So how do we as parents make changes so that we can get to a place where we love the way we parent?Rose Clark is a parenting coach for women who don't want to parent the way their parents did. After a difficult childhood, she knew she wanted to do things differently. Now, as a coach, Rose equips mamas with solid strategies to get them to a place where they LOVE the way they PARENT! One of here specialities is teaching women to decode the messages of their heart and use them as a powerful force for holding boundaries and getting needs met. Rose lives with her best-friend-husband, Steve, and their 2 daughters in Nova Scotia, Canada.In this episode we discuss:The Language of Listening® approach and the three steps to implement it in your parentingRecognizing and noticing the things you don't like in the way you parentAccepting the way we parent and why we act and react the ways we doReparenting - changing the way we parent so it's different than how you were parentedLearning to accept your emotions so you can approach difficult parenting situations more positively and with less angerConnect with Rose on Instagram @love.the.way.you.parent.  On Facebook Love the Way You ParentRead the SAY WHAT YOU SEE® Handbook free online.To learn more about Adverse Childhood Experiences click HERELove the Way You Parent WebsiteAs always, we would love to continue the conversation with you on our social media on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob. and Facebook The Sweetest and Toughest JobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, blog, resources and guest information.

Yumnah Syed-Swift, LMSW is a proud bio-mom to her sweet son and bonus mom to two amazing girls, and a Licensed Masters of Social Work . A born and raised California girl, turned New Yorker, Yumnah has lived in LA, New York City, and now calls Austin, TX home. She has a Masters degree in Social Work and is licensed to provide therapy in the state of Texas. Currently, Yumnah is working on obtaining her LCSW, with her ultimate goal being to open her own private practice in the future.On this episode, Yumnah talks about finding love after divorce.  How she became a Mom first as a bonus Mom and then how she navigated having her own child with her husband and blending their family's.  She talks about step-parenting and parenting a special needs child.  Yumnah shares how she relishes in the unexpected blessings that have unfolded in her life and the winding path she took to get her where she is today.She recently launched her own Virtual Assistant business, Swift and Savvy Virtual Assistant Services. She founded her business to help small business owners take things off their plate so they can focus on the things most important to them. After years of experience working as an Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, PR Assistant, and Event Planner and Coordinator, creating this business felt like the right step in cultivating her own goals and supporting others in the process!When she's not at her desk, it's likely Yumnah is chasing around her infant, helping her stepdaughters with homework, cooking, cleaning...ya know, mom stuff! Her husband says she is a "type-A" person and doesn't know how to relax. She can't resist a cozy blanket, sour candy and a good cup of chai. Highlights from the episode include:Finding happiness after divorceBecoming a *bonus* Mom and what the transition to motherhood was likeInter-cultural marriage and blending families with different backgroundsThe blessings of having a beautiful family that looks different than you might have imagined you would haveParenting a child with special needsHaving a child when you are a stepmother to other children and the transition for the familyEvery family looks a little different, Yumnah reminds us all that no matter how you become a mother or what your family looks like, it should all be celebrated.Connect with Yumnah on her website at: Swift and Savvy On Social Media on Instagram @nunna17.  Or on Facebook @Yumnah-M Syed SwiftAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Facebook at The Sweetest and Toughest Job or on Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjobVisit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for additional episodes, guest links, blog and resources.Thank you for listening!

Carly Hamilton-Jones is a mindset coach who helps high-achieving women dissolve mental roadblocks as they move forward to create a purposeful life and business. Overwhelm, self-doubt and perfectionism are obstacles that stand in the way of our big life and business goals. Carly guides women through mindset strategies and gives them the tools and perspective to move forward with confidence. She has 20 years of experience coaching, mentoring and teaching women and young adults to create lasting change, shift their thoughts and beliefs and lead purpose-driven lives. She is a mom of three and lives in Saratoga Springs, NY.Carly and I chat about finding purpose in life and how she helps other Moms overcome obstacles to achieve their goals.  She also shares her journey to motherhood; she experienced loss and several miscarriages before conceiving her first child and went on to have three children.  Carly also shares how she has navigated and coped with anxiety which she first started experiencing as a first grade child.You can connect with Carly via her website Carly Hamilton-JonesVia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlyhamiltonjones/Via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlyhamiltonjones/As always we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on our social media on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetestandtoughestjob/and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetestandtoughestjob/Visit https://www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com/ for other episodes, resources and guest contact information. Thank you for listening!

Michelle is a Certified Postpartum Doula, Newborn Care Specialist and a GroovaRoo Instructor.  Originally from New Zealand she moved to the USA in 2010.  The majority of her work life has been working with families as either a nanny, foster parent, postpartum doula or newborn care specialist.  She became a GroovaRoo instructor in 2016 to encourage a way to do something enjoyable with your baby and also create a support system.  Michelle talks all about Groovaroo which a babywearing dance class wonderful for bonding and movement for caregivers with their baby.  Michelle also talks about babywearing and how to find the right carrier and we discuss postpartum doula care and what questions to ask and what to think about if you are considering hiring a postpartum doula.Highlights from the episode include:GroovaRoo overview and benefitsHow to find GroovaRoo in your areaBaby wearing tips and how to find the right carrierBaby wearing safetyPostpartum doula care offeringsWhat to think about if you are considering hiring a postpartum doulaConnect with Michelle on Instagram @dancingkiwidoulaVisit her website Bond with BabyTo learn more about Groovaroo and to find a class and instructor in your area visit http://groovaroo.com/As always we would love to connect with you on Instagram and Facebook to continue the conversation!Instagram: @sweetestandtoughestjobFacebook: The Sweetest and Toughest JobFor other episodes, resources and guest information visit our website http://sweetestandtoughestjob.com/

The transition to motherhood is not always smooth or picture perfect.  Poly's initial journey to motherhood included a high risk pregnancy that ended in an emergency c-section at 35 weeks gestation.  Her son spent some time in the NICU before coming home and is now a thriving little boy.  Polly shares what her experience transitioning to motherhood was like which included becoming a Stay At Home Mom.  She shares her journey in hopes of making another Mom listening feel less alone in what they are going through.Polly has a background in healthcare administration and is a former lifestyle blogger. She decided to use her past experiences to build her copywriting business and works with entrepreneurs in the health, wellness, and motherhood industries. She lives in Seattle with her husband and and two boys. She specializes in helping women and mama entrepreneurs grow their business by expanding their online presence through website content, blog posts, and social media.Connect with Polly Instagram: @thewritecollaboration Facebook: The Write CollaborationWe would love to connect with you on social media to continue to conversation on Facebook or Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjobVisit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for episodes, resources and guest info.Thank you for listening!

Lindsay Leiviska, MAT is a mom of three and an educator who has been working with children for 20+ years.  Lindsay has her Masters degree in Teaching and has been homeschooling for almost 10 years.  Lindsay and I chat about remote learning and what her perspective is on how parents should be approaching learning from home.  We also discuss her new book, Behind the Behaviors: 4 Steps to Capture & Influence Your Child's Heart, Beliefs, & Behavior where she details her and her family's journey to find answers to help her adoptive son navigate special needs.  Her book provides relatable insight and tools parents can use to help equip them to help children who think and process the world differently.  Lindsay has created a program called A Heart for All Students in efforts to help Moms and parents so they can effectively parent and connect with their children who might be exhibiting challenging behavior.Some Highlights from this episode include:Taking the pressure off and realizing remote learning is not meant to replicate school settingsThe importance of play on child development and brain developmentTaking this season to recognize and fill in the gaps with your child's learningTaking a breath to find balance and cherish family time we are awardedLindsays personal experiences with homeschooling and how she manages the day to dayCheck out Lindsay's YouTube Channel for helpful tips and activities to aid in remote learning.Lindsay's new book is now available on Amazon: Behind the Behaviors: 4 Steps to Capture & Influence Your Child's Heart, Beliefs, & BehaviorVisit A Heart for All Students for more information on her organization and for the courses she has available.Connect with Lindsay on Instagram @aheartforallstudentson Facebook at A Heart for All StudentsAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Social media on Facebook @sweetestandtoughestjob and Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjobVisit our website www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for all episodes, guest information and resources.

Our world looks different right now.  Many families find themselves in situations where parents are working from home, families need to stay home only venturing out for essentials, schools are closed and children are now learning from their homes.  This is not a great shift to Homeschooling but instead a shift to remote learning.  My very amazing Mom, Brenda Colgate, joins me on this episode to talk about this shift and how to find balance and think about remote learning during these uncertain times.My Mom Brenda has taught elementary school for 25 years.  She earned her Elementary Education degree from San Diego State University and her Masters in Education from University of Connecticut.  She is GATE certified, has a CLAD certification and is a Tech Coach for her school in Southern California.  She also has a sixth year professional diploma in Exercise Science.  In addition to her robust teaching credentials and certifications she taught fitness for 30 years and developed a kids fitness program called Silly Willy Workout.Some Highlights from the episode include:Finding and maintaining balance when shifting to remote learning with your kidsHow to look at Educational Technology and screen timeSocial/Emotional piece to kids shifting to remote learningHow to look at getting schoolwork done every day/week to stay on trackMaking time for play and exercise in your daily routines and schedulesBeing okay with letting your child make mistakesSome Educational Technology Tools Discussed:SeesawGoogle Slides or Google Docs to Share your Child's work with friends and relativesFlipgridBook CreatorEpic BooksStoryline OnlineFitness and Mindfulness Tools:Silly Willy Workout - kids fitness audio and video tapesGo NoodleMeditation- headspace To connect with Brenda on Instagram @bgcolgateAs always we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Facebook or Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjobThank you for listening!

Leanne Page is Mom to two and a BCBA - Board Certified Behavior Analyst.  Leanne helps parents incorporate positive behavior strategies in their parenting.  During our discussion, Leanne shares the four main reasons for behavior problems in children and ways that you can use a positive approach to combatting and dealing with meltdowns and difficult behavior.  Highlights from the episode:Positive approaches to use before meltdowns occur to avoid themUsing timers to manage expectations and transitionsUsing verbal prompts to front load for the "last thing" Positive reinforcement and rewards vs. taking things away and using punishmentsControlling rewards and maintaining control as parentLeanne has a Master's degree in Educational Psychology, a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis, and has been a BCBA since 2011.Leanne's writing can be found in my book Parenting with Science, on her website Parenting with ABA, the Today Show Parenting Team, Medium, bSci21.com , and the Dr. Kim Live show.Connect with Leanne on Instagram @parentingwithaba or on Facebook Parenting With ABAAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on our Instagram or Facebook @sweetestandtoughestjobThank you for listening!

Bridget is sharing her personal journey of self-discovery and how she found and pursued her purpose and passions in life.  It was not an easy road to navigate where at one point she almost lost her marriage.  Her story is relatable to any Mom who might feel lost or like their life is slightly off course.  Bridget has most recently launched a coaching business to help moms who are trying to reconnect with who they were before they had children, and moms who might be discovering who they are for the first time and trying to find the what's next in their life.Bridget is also the founder of Ripple Kids, Inc. a nonprofit seeing to inspire and empower kids to take action in the community.  A Ripple Kid is a kid who has identified an issue and has taken action to resolve it.During our conversation Bridget shares essential tips that you can integrate into your everyday life to ensure you are taking care of yourself during uncertain times and beyond.  Download her guide outlining 3 essential tips as well as projects you can do with your children to make a difference.  Download the Thrive Guide by going to www.bridgetbelden.comBridget is also offering listeners a FREE 30 minute breakthrough session.  Go to www.bridgetbelden.com. OR click HERE. OR Text BREAKTHROUGH to 474747Continue the conversation with Bridget at Magenta Moment Moms on Facebook. Visit the Ripple Kids Website. or Connect on Ripple Kids FacebookAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Facebook or Instagram @sweetestandtoughestjob and would be so thankful if you have a minute to leave a rating or review.Thank you for listening!

Kelli Anderson is the founder of Mindset Mamas, where she helps moms find and pursue their purpose. She believes that it's possible for moms to prioritize themselves while also being amazing parents. Kelli lives in Hebron, KY with her husband, Chad, and two boys, Owen (3) and Connor (6 months). She loves coaching gymnastics, refinishing furniture, and learning to play her ukulele!   On this episode, Kelli shares tips for finding your purpose and passion, focusing on yourself without the mom guilt and navigating your changed identity after becoming a Mom.  Some highlights from the episode are:Focusing on taking each day hour by hourIdentity changes after becoming a MomSmall steps and things you can do everyday to center your MindsetCombatting mom guilt when focusing on YOUSome of the tips she shares for taking manageable steps everyday are:JournalingSitting in silence for 10 minutes each dayExercising or practicing yoga even if for 5-10 minutes each day5 minute meditationsWriting down the BIG 3 each dayOne for YourselfOne household ChoreGetting Kids Out of the HouseVisit www.mindsetmamas.comand connect with Kelli on Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/mindsetmamas/Instagram: @mindsetmamasinstaFacebook: Mindset MamasJoin the conversation by using the Hashtag #IammorethanmomAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation on Instagram or Facebook @sweetestandtoughestjobVisit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for more episodes, resources and guest information.  Thank you for listening!

Holly Booker is a retired paramedic, now a registered holistic health and nutrition counsellor. She specializes in helping moms like herself to find physical and mental health and wellbeing through creating sustainable healthy lifestyle habits. Holly is also a mom to a spirited four year old and works extensively with families to help overcome common mealtime and food struggles so that parents can be confident that their children are getting the nutrition that they need to thrive.Holly and I chat all about what holistic nutrition is and what it means to eat plant based.  She shares some easy tips to integrate healthy, nutritious foods into your childs diet and some great on-the-go snack ideas for both mama and kids!To connect with Holly visit her website: Holly Booker NutritionOn Facebook and InstagramAs always we would love to continue the conversation with you on our Instagram or Facebook @sweetestandtoughestjob Visit www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com for past episodes, resources and information.Thank you for listening!

Russell Meyerowitz and his wife Amy started the Parkinsons Wellness Fund 18 years ago.  Russell's father was diagnosed with Parkinsons disease 18 years ago and he and his family experienced firsthand the burden of medical expenses that often leave families with little ability to get the things that would help their loved one live the best quality of life possible when living with the disease.  So the mission of the Parkinsons Wellness Fund is to assist individuals living with the disease to live an improved quality of life TODAY.Russell shares his journey in navigating having a father with the disease, how he has learned to cope and how he talks with his young children about their grandfather battling the illness.  It can be extremely challenging navigating parenting while also helping and supporting your own parent who is battling a disease or difficult illness.To learn more about the PWF visit https://parkinsonswellnessfund.org/Connect with PWF on  @parkinsonswellnessfundAs always, we would love to connect with you to continue the conversation at www.sweetestandtoughestjob.com or on Instagram or Facebook @sweetestandtoughestjobThank you for listening!