This Mom Loves

My special guest this week is Jennifer Singh: former TV reporter, current CEO of She's Newsworthy Media where she offers PR strategy and media coaching. We talk about her career pivot, the impact of COVID-19, working from home, how women can step up and use their voices (in business or otherwise), allyship and inclusive marketing...and more! You can find Jennifer Singh and She's Newsworthy Media on the web, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, and you can also join the She's Newsworthy Media Success Facebook group - I'm a member!   At the end of the episode, I share some personal news which explains why the show will be on hiatus for a while - I'll be posting updates as I can!

Amanda D. Watson, author of The Juggling Mother: Coming Undone in the Age of Anxiety, is here to discuss her area of expertise! We talk about media representations of juggling mothers (in TV, movies, commercials) and who's left out of them, plus I ask Amanda about her own little ones, her thoughts on all of the "mommy needs a drink" memes, the role of influencers in both normalizing and easing the burden on moms (plus she shares one of her favourite accounts to follow) and the impact of COVID-19 on the "coming undone" of the juggling mothers. This was one of my favourite chats to date! Also in this episode I recommend: The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business by Charles Duhigg and the new podcast Go Ask Ali You can find Amanda D. Watson on Instagram , Twitter, and her website, and order her book here. Thanks to my sound editor, LUKASOUND.

This week I'm chatting with Carolyn MacKenzie, cohost of Global's The Morning Show - who is usually the one asking me the questions! We talk about pivoting to do the show from home during COVID, her recent rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis, how her kids are doing back in school, what insider info she can give us about her cohost Jeff McArthur, how she handles social media negativity, women in broadcasting that she admires, and she even surprises me with a future career dream! Also in this episode I recommend: I Am These Truths: A Memoir of Identity, Justice and Living Between Worlds by Sunny Hostin So You Want To Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo ...and I share my advice for getting kids involved in the kitchen (my girls do way more of the household cooking and baking than I do now) as well as some tips from this hgtv.ca article, 10 Clever Ways to Get Your Kids More Involved in the Kitchen by Emma Yardley. Thanks to my sound editor, LUKASOUND!

It's impossible to share all of Dr. Liza Egbogah's titles in the same breath: chiropractor and manual osteopath, designer of Dr. Liza shoes and bags (both comfortable and gorgeous), clinical director of the[fix] in Toronto (her "Face Fix" treatment is on my wish list)...oh, and she's a mom too. In this interview we talk about some of her celebrity clients (the ones she's allowed to mention), her beautiful bags and shoes (I own two pairs), how she became an expert contributor for TV, and even more serious topics like her experiences as a Black woman and her thoughts on the recent anti-racism movement. Also in this episode, I recommend two books: Framed by S.L. McInnis The Last Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine I also talk about Canva, which I love for DIY graphic design, and my new Instagram account, @EvenBetterProject (actionable tips for becoming an even better person and making the world an even better place). Come give it a follow! Finally in this episode I share a little giveaway I'm doing of five $10 Tim Hortons cards, and all you have to do to enter is leave a review of the podcast wherever you listen (e.g., Apple Podcasts) and send me a screenshot (past reviews count too). You can find Dr. Liza Egbogah on her website, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram. Also check out Dr. Liza Shoes & Bags and the[fix].

This week I'm chatting with Cladwell cofounder and CEO Erin Flynn - I have the Cladwell personal styling app and use it all the time! We discuss purging closets (she took hers from 450 items to 75!), shopping intentionally (and how "planned obsolescence" and "perceived obsolescence" keep us shopping), the impact of COVID-19 on business, how to make the most of Cladwell and more! Also in this episode I recommend two controversial books that I enjoyed (and delve into some of the controversy): American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell (this one's the October pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club - come join us!) Plus I run through my 20 for 2020 goals (with credit to Gretchen Rubin) and give an update on the progress - which is actually better than you'd think during a pandemic! ("Wear lipstick more often" has not, however, been a success.) Thanks to this episode's sponsor, Minimalist Moms. If you live in Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough or Durham and have a child under 6 you really should check out their monthly toy lending subscription kits - save money, reduce clutter, help the environment and keep your child interested in their toys! You can find Erin Flynn on Instagram, and find Cladwell on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. You can download Cladwell from the App Store on iOS. For more information visit www.cladwell.com. This episode was edited for sound by lukasound.

This week on the podcast Melissa Grelo, cohost of The Social and cofounder of marQ Designs, is here talking about filming the show from home, the post-COVID future of TV, her experience as a woman of colour, anti-racism allyship (genuine vs performative), why she left her teaching career for television,what's coming next for her gender-neutral kids' clothing line, how The Social has changed over seven seasons, her pandemic puppy...and more! Also in this episode, I recommend three great nonfiction book picks: I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown Joy at Work: Organizing Your Professional Life by Marie Kondo and Steven Sonenshein Finding Freedom: Harry and Meghan and the Making of a Modern Royal Family by Omid Scobie and Carolyn Durand ...and I share three very important parenting tips for the COVID-19 return to school: 1. Rely on trusted sources of information 2. Do what's best for your family 3. Communicate and assume good intentions I elaborate on all three tips in the show. Thanks to Couture Candy PTBO for sponsoring this week's episode - you can find them on Instagram, Facebook and at CoutureCandyPTBO.ca (Personal note: I can highly recommend their amazing candy boxes and candygrams which can be sent anywhere in Canada. The chocolate box in particular is amazing.) You can find Melissa Grelo on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and melissagrelo.com. The Social is on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. marQ Designs is on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and their website. As always, this podcast was sound edited by the fabulous lukasound.

We're back from our COVID-19/summer hiatus and starting out strong with a conversation with the very kind and gracious Pattie Lovett-Reid, Chief Financial Commentator for CTV News. In this chat we cover a huge range of topics: COVID real estate, investments, setbacks and supports; choosing charities, talking to kids about money, her role with CTV and the (sometimes self-imposed) pressure on women in television plus embracing her natural curls this summer! Pattie also answers listener questions, including one from someone she knows very well! In this episode I also recommend some excellent books: The Sweeney Sisters by Lian Dolan Hurry Home by Roz Nay The Mountains Wild: A Mystery by Sarah Stewart Taylor The Guest List by Lucy Foley (the September 2020 pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club - it's a very welcoming Facebook group; come join us!) Check out my Reading List for Summer 2020 for the books I read during my podcast hiatus and didn't get a chance to mention on the show! In the lifestyle segment, this seemed like the perfect episode to talk about kids and money and share my own experiences with my two girls. (I forgot to mention that they're both eager thrift shoppers - they'd rather go to Vinnie's or Value Village than the mall!) On a very related note, the sponsor of this episode: Eva's Scrunchie Co You can find Pattie Lovett-Reid on Instagram and Twitter. Sound edited for this episode as always by the excellent lukasound.  

PK Beans founder Traci Costa is here today talking about her kids' clothing business, their fun and educational new subscription box and working at home with her husband and daughters during COVID-19, plus we have a big conversation about kids and the importance of play. What does free play really mean? What is the role of parents, and are they too cautious when it comes to letting kids be outside and explore risky play? Also in this episode: Red Letter Days by Sarah-Jane Stratford Love Water Memory by Jennie Shortridge Small biz shoutouts (both take orders online and ship across Canada): Unwrapped Kawartha (zero waste products) Couture Candy Ptbo (candy boxes/candygrams) You can find Traci Costa on Instagram, and PK Beans on their website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Thanks to lukasound for sound editing this episode...and every episode to date!

It's episode 50 and Mabel's Labels maven and mom of six Julie Cole is here! We cover a lot of ground in this conversation: the celebrity customers that her multimillion dollar business has attracted, parenting (before and during COVID-19, including how she mobilizes the older kids to help the younger ones learn at home); organizing schedules, paperwork, clothes, toys and all the "stuff" that comes with a big family; plus being a special needs mom (her oldest child has autism), and I ask her my most pressing parenting question: how does she stop sibling bickering??? Julie also opens up about her separation and the "nesting" style of coparenting that's working for her family, plus much more! Also in this episode: The Girl in the Letter by Emily Gunnis Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens - it's the May pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club; come join us! This Mom Loves x Hidden Gems By Raquel: Mother's Day order deadline is April 24th and we continue to donate $4 per bracelet to food banks. (Remember there are cute mommy & me options too!)   Winn-approved board/card games that won't bore the adults to tears or make you want to stick a fork in your eye: Jenga, Clue, Trouble, 5 Second Rule (Jr.), Euchre You can find Julie Cole on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and Mabel's Labels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and their website. One final plea from this teacher: I beg of you, please label your child's belongings! Special thanks to my fantastic sound editor, lukassound - he has been with me right from Episode 1 and I couldn't do this podcast without him! If you need any audio-related support (production, composition or even consultation) check out his new website!

Psychotherapist Kelly Bos is here with help for our COVID-19 stressors: working from home, physical distancing, parenting/schooling, health-related anxieties. and more. Also two book recommendations, and on the lighter side of things, how celebrities are handling the "learning at home concept" - HELLO! Canada magazine even asked me for my expert input! Kelly Bos can be found on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and her website; Talk Therapy Podcast is on Instagram. Book recommendations: The Forgotten Home Child by Genevieve Graham Beartown by Fredrik Backman Plus: Celebrity and Expert-Approved Tips on How Children Can Learn at Home While Self-Isolating (HELLO! Canada - I know I should be proud to be one of the experts but it would also have been fun to be one of the celebrities!) How Celebrities are Handling Homeschooling (This Mom Loves) Thanks to my amazing podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Lindsay Sealey, author of Rooted, Resilient, and Ready: Empowering Teen Girls as They Grow is here talking about the big issues: appearance, mental health, phones and social media, friendships, peer pressure...we cover it all! Also in this episode: This Mom Loves x Hidden Gems By Raquel for every bracelet purchased between now and April 24 we will be donating $4 to the food bank - and you're probably going to be shopping online for Mother's Day! In Five Years by Rebecca Serle (the April pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club - come join us!) Find Your Path: Honor Your Body, Fuel Your Soul and Get Strong With the Fit52 Life by Carrie Underwood The Other Windsor Girl: A Novel of Princess Margaret, Royal Rebel by Georgie Blalock Keeping Kids Learning During School Closures (segment video and a huge list of resources that I continue to update as I come across new ones) Working Out At Home: My Favourite New Site/App For more information or to order Lindsay Sealey's book: Rooted, Resilient, and Ready: Empowering Teen Girls as They Grow You can find Lindsay on Instagram, Twitter and her website.

Marcy D'Alessandro, Chair of the PRHC Mombassadors, is here sharing fundraising ups and downs, tips and tricks and a pile of ideas that might help you raise money for your cause! We're also talking about a couple of fun upcoming events for the Mombasadors, including their Girls Night Out: A Night in Nashville (...in Peterborough!) Marcy is also the unofficial Prime Minister of the This Mom Loves fan club...a longtime supporter! We talk about more personal connections in our chat too, and you have to check out the amazing event Marcy organized recently for International Women's Day, so a small group of women could make a big difference! (I was there too!) Also in this episode: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman My new bracelet collaboration: This Mom Loves x Hidden Gems by Raquel My treadmill desk: You can find the PRHC Mombassadors on Facebook and Instagram. Thanks to my fantastic podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Raquel Paulo of Hidden Gems By Raquel is sharing all her tips and tricks for running a successful business while working a day job and raising kids! We talk about her highs and lows and everything in between, and of course also discuss our brand new bracelet collaboration, This Mom Loves x Hidden Gems by Raquel! Also in this episode: Followers: A Novel By Megan Angelo - this one is the March pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club. Interested? Come join us! and I recommend a fabric razor! Thank you to my editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Kate Wells and Jane Fitzgerald, each the mom of a child with special needs, are here sharing everything they want other moms to know, and answering a pile of listener questions: how to interact with a child with special needs, how to include them in activities like birthday parties, how all kids can benefit from inclusion and how to answer when your child asks in the grocery store (loudly of course) "What's wrong with him?!" - they're sharing all their thoughts! I love the interviews that I do in person, and we sat around my dining room table on a snowy day having this chat together. Kate and Jane have also made themselves available if any of you have a private question for them - please reach out to me through social media or email thismomlovespodcast@gmail.com and I can put you in touch! Also in this episode: Start Here: A Parent's Guide to Helping Children and Teens Through Mental Health Challenges by Pier Bryden, M.D., and Peter Szatmari, M.D. The Other Side of the Coin: The Queen, The Dresser and The Wardrobe by Angela Kelly Thanks to my wonderful podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Jessica Lahey, teacher, mom and bestselling author of The Gift of Failure, is here with tons of advice to help our kids become independent and thrive! We cover homework, bullying, rewards, parent/teacher relationships, the importance of free play and her surprise endorsement from Kristen Bell! Jessica also gives us a sneak peek at the fascinating subject of her next book. You can find Jessica Lahey on her website, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and find more info or purchase The Gift of Failure here. (I chose it as the inaugural pick of the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club and we had some great discussions about it throughout this month! We're reading Woman on the Edge next - come join us!) Also in this episode: I made a big announcement about TML x HGBR, my first This Mom Loves product collaboration, with the gorgeous jewelry brand Hidden Gems By Raquel, launching March 1st! AND This Mom Loves logo t-shirts are now for sale! Order by February 7th to get in on the first batch! Thanks as always to my fantastic podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Actress Jenn Robertson (she plays the mayor's wife Jocelyn Schitt on the hit show Schitt's Creek) is answering all our questions about the 6th and final season, as well as talking about her family, favourite things and what's next in her career! Also in this episode: Woman on the Edge by Canadian author Samantha M. Bailey (This was just announced as the February pick for the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club - come join us!) My Top 10 Blog Posts of 2019 (#1 is closely connected to this episode's special guest!)

Financial educator Kelley Keehn is here answering questions about RESPs, online baking safety, why she won't ask us to make a budget, shopaholic strategies, how to talk money with partners and kids and more. Kelley Keehn's website, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter For more information or to purchase Kelley's book Talk Money To Me: Save Well, Spend Some and Feel Good About Your Money Also in this episode: Find Your Pleasure: The Art of Living a More Joyful Life by Cynthia Loyst The movie Bombshell: Displaying meaningful items: Thanks as always to my fantastic podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Marci Ien of CTV's The Social is here to talk Raptors, race, opening up on national television, her IEN LEE shoe line and more! Marci was my very first Momterview on the blog back in 2010 and has continued to be unfailingly kind and generous in the time I have known her. Case in point: we originally recorded this episode months ago but ended up having an issue with the audio and it was unusable...and Marci did not hesitate to agree to record again! Marci Ien on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram The Social on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram IEN LEE on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Also in this episode: The BBC Roast Calculator Someone We Know by Shari Lapena Plus I share some ways you can be an amazing school parent - giving some recent examples from my own class! Did you hear about the This Mom Loves Virtual Book Club? Click to check it out!

The experts are here with advice to help you survive and thrive this holiday season! Caron Irwin is talking holiday parenting, Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe has holiday health covered, Lisa Orr's taking care of holiday etiquette and Chelsea Montgomery has tips for holiday stress! It's a jam-packed episode that you won't want to miss! Thanks to my editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Dr. Andrea Gelinas is a mom and business owner with an eye for design - and she's also been called Toronto's Coolest Dentist! She's here to chat about all of that and more. Also in this episode: ways to give back (you may not have heard of all of them), DIY gel manicures at home and as always, some book recommendations - this time a couple of great suspense novels. For more information on Gelinas Dental Studio, follow them on Instagram and Facebook and visit their website. More details on Ways To Give Back More details on At-Home DIY Gel Manicures Two suspense novels recommended in this episode: Wherever She Goes by K. L. Armstrong The Night Before by Wendy Walker

Sangita Patel, host of Home To Win on HGTV Canada, is here to talk about Season 4 of the show - they're giving away a Home for the Holidays! We also talk about her famous Fitness Tuesdays, parenting our tween/teen girls, racism, travel tips and more! My previous interview with Sangita Patel Find Sangita on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter and her website All the details on Home To Win! Also in this episode: Parent/Teacher Interview True/False: My Segment on The Morning Show How To Ace Your Parent/Teacher Interview (my article for Today's Parent) Nonfiction Book Recommendations: You are Awesome by Neil Pasricha Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self by Manoush Zomorodi Help Me: My Perfectly Disastrous Journey Through the World of Self-Help by Marianne Power The Art of Making Memories by Meik Wiking Forty Fathers: Men Talk About Parenting as told to Tessa Lloyd Feeding My Mother: Comfort and Laughter in the Kitchen as My Mom Lives with Memory Loss by Jann Arden

Tech expert Amber Mac is here talking about screen time, outsmarting your kids online, warning sides of internet trouble, tween/teen platforms, online etiquette and HerTurn, Canada's Online Business Competition Series for Women! You can find Amber on her website, as well as Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Also in this episode: My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing Dear Wife by Kimberly Belle A Good Wife: Escaping the Life I Never Chose by Samra Zafar For more information on my experiences with the eyebrow procedures I spoke about: Microblading Hybrid Brows The place I go: Permanent Beauty by Kalyna in Peterborough

Author Elizabeth Cline is here answering questions about her new book, The Conscious Closet, and offering advice for sustainable fashion. Also in the show, I'm reviewing shampoo and conditioner bars from Canadian company Unwrapped Life as well as Cladwell, your personal stylist right on your device - my new favourite app! We kick off this jam-packed show with some fun Downton Abbey books. You can find Elizabeth Cline on her website as well as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. For more information or to purchase: The Conscious Closet The shampoo and conditioner bars I recommend are from Unwrapped Life. The personal styling app I reviewed is called Cladwell. Books: The Official Downton Abbey Cookbook  (Since recording the girls and I made the Yorkshire Puddings recipe and they were amazing!) The Official Downton Abbey Cocktail Book The Downton Abbey Coloring Book

Gemma Hartley, author of the book Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Women and the Way Forward is here to delve in to this fascinating subject and offer some advice! For more information or to purchase: Fed Up: Emotional Labor, Woman and the Way Forward by Gemma Hartley You can find Gemma on her website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Also in this episode: 12 Indigenous Picture Books To Add To Your Collection Own Your Anxiety: 99 Simple Ways To Channel Your Secret Edge by Julian Brass The Braid by Laetitia Colombani 6 Rules I Break (By a Big Rule-Follower)

Cheryl Hickey is here to talk parenting, beauty tips (inner and outer), her side hustle, and social media thoughts (including how to get a great photo) plus all the scoop on season 15 of ET Canada on Global! You can find Cheryl on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and ET Canada on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. My first interview with Cheryl Hickey My behind-the-scenes visit to ET Canada with Cheryl Hickey ...and a photo on set from my latest visit, after we sat in the green room to chat for this episode! Also in this episode: I recommend the book The Favorite Daughter by Kaira Rouda And I share lots of behind-the-scenes details of my Episode 33 sit-down with Sophie Grégoire Trudeau (including the answer to the question "How did you get that interview?" which I didn't really know for sure myself until I asked!) Since this week's episode features Cheryl Hickey, I also mention some other great TV personalities who have been on the show, and you can find them here: Cynthia Loyst - Episode 2 Tracy Moore - Episode 17 Farah Nasser - Episode 20 Sarah Richardson - Episode 27 Thanks to my podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

In this episode, I sit down with Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, wife of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, to talk about a range of topics from parenting, mental health and physical activity to fashion, travel and books, as well as several of the causes she supports. She is very open and honest, particularly when talking about her family and the life of a public servant, and I also ask her about any regrets she may have, and what misconceptions people may have of her. In this interview, Sophie shares several of her favourite Canadian designers and businesses, including: Valérie Dumaine Birds of North America Tania Larsson Studio Sparkes Zaleska Jewelry RASA Christy Feaver The Tailor Project I've received many questions about this interview, so stay tuned for Episode 34 when I'll share some behind-the-scenes tidbits! If you are new to This Mom Loves, you can find past episodes of the podcast here, or check out my blog, TV appearances or published work.

Jam-packed with book recommendations from me and listeners as well as reading tips and tricks (library holds, abandoning books, respecting kids' reading preferences, keeping track of what you've read, e-reading thoughts) and some insider information, this episode is for all the book lovers out there! Just a note that I've also moved to a biweekly episode format in order to continue the show regularly through the school year! The authors I mentioned who have been guests on the show: Jessica Holmes (Depression: The Comedy) - Episode 6 Laura Vanderkam (Off the Clock: Feel Less Busy While Getting More Done) - Episode 10 Miss Minimalist Francine Jay (Lightly) - Episode 21 Ann Douglas (Happy Parents, Happy Kids) - Episode 23 And for subscription box lovers: Kerrie Hansler (Sweet Reads Box) - Episode 25 Books recommended in the show: (Note that if you're planning to purchase one of these books, it's a big help to me if you use these links. Thanks!) Saving Meghan by DJ Palmer (me) Her One Mistake by Heidi Perks (@hockeysticksgripstrips on Instagram)Born a Crime by Trevor Noah (Marcy called in) A Mother's Secret by TJ Stimson (me) Three Pines/Inspector Gamache series by Louise Penny (Maria on Instagram) The Art of Leaving by Ayelet Tsbari (Sarah called in) The Girl you Left Behind by Jojo Moyes (me) Beartown and A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Bachman (Megan on Facebook) Us Against You (sequel to Beartown, above; Sue on Facebook) Daisy Jones and the Six (Andrea called in)Indigenous Relations: Insights, Tips and Suggestions to Make Reconciliation a Reality by Bob Joseph with Cynthia Joseph (me) All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr (Andrea on Facebook) Watching You by Lisa Jewell (Laurie called in) After the End by Clare Mackintosh (me) You will be happy to know that by the time I had this show recorded, my dad (with the assistance of my mom) had moved his book list (of more than 2000 read titles!) from a Word doc to Google Docs and it can now be updated on the go from any device!

Registered Social Workers Tracy Condon and Laura Koekkoek of CK Social Work are here to unpack all of the issues associated with women's friendships: making friends, keeping friends, growing apart or breaking up with friends...we covered it all in this fun chat! Thanks to a listener for suggesting this interview topic - what a great idea! - and all those who submitted their questions for Tracy and Laura. I'm also sharing staycation tips and a nonfiction book reco. Just a reminder that if you have extended health coverage through your benefits, you are very likely covered for counseling with a social worker. If you live in my area you will want to look into CK Social Work, but no matter where you live you can find a counselor for you, your partner or your child (or a combination thereof) - it could make a huge difference! Also in this episode: The book I recommend is Maid by Stephanie Land. Here is my post with staycation tips and ideas. The past episodes I referred to (some of the most-downloaded to date): Episode 1 with Kortney Wilson Episode 7 with Allison Bell Episode 18 with Natalie MacMaster Episode 22 with Jillian Harris

Lara Murray is with me to chat about easy, practical ways to produce less waste in your home - or classroom! I'm also sharing 8 ADHD facts that parents should know - even if your child isn't affected by it - and of course a book recommendation! You can find Lara Murray (and all her Norwex products) on Facebook and her website. My book reco: The Valedictorian of Being Dead by Heather B. Armstrong 8 ADHD Facts You Need to Know The past episodes I mentioned with fantastic guest experts: Episode 5 with Lisa Orr (Etiquette) Episode 13 with Alanna McGinn (Sleep) Episode 15 with Melissa Leong (Money) Episode 16 with Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe (Women's health)

Faith Dickinson is here talking about launching Cuddles for Cancer at the age of nine (!), winning the Diana Award, attending Harry and Meghan's wedding, how parents can encourage philanthropy and how you're never too young to make a difference! Receiving the Diana Award from Princes William and Harry Cuddles for Cancer on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter Faith Dickinson on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter At the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex Also in this episode: The book I recommended this week: Her One Mistake by Heidi Perks Links to my Adventures in Freelancing series: Volume I: My Top 5 Tips Volume II: More Insider Tips Volume III: A Successful Query Letter, You Got the Job - Now What? and how I make my blog work for me Volume IV: How To Thicken the Skin Volume V: Editors Share Pitching Tips

In this episode, author Laurie Gelman talks about her new Class Mom sequel, the hilarious novel You've Been Volunteered, as well as parenting her teen girls, marriage advice (her husband is Live! with Kelly and Ryan executive producer Michael Gelman), what she misses about Canada and more! To purchase or find out more about You've Been Volunteered Laurie Gelman on Instagram and Twitter Also discussed in this episode: The 5 Love Languages of Children (a recap of the 5 languages, how to figure our your child's primary language and how to "speak" it)

Designer Sarah Richardson is here to talk season 2 of Sarah Off the Grid - in the season finale of This Mom Loves! We also chat parenting (our girls are the same ages), sustainable design, Wayfair's very cool image search feature (I wish they had this when we were doing our huge reno!) and Sarah answers some listener questions too! In case you're interested, this was my first interview with Sarah Richardson back in 2010, and this was the one I did from my car in 2017! Also in this episode: The Gown: A Novel of the Royal Wedding by Jennifer Robson, and I share some best practices for sending birthday party invitations to school! This Mom Loves will be back soon with more favourite things, lifestyle ideas and fantastic guests!

Caron Irwin, founder of Roo Parenting, answers questions about siblings: ideal gaps, preparing a child for a sibling, sharing rooms, fighting, birth order theory, twins and more! You can find Caron at Roo Parenting, and on Instagram and Facebook. The "9 Minutes" advice I spotted on Facebook: In the "Favourite Things" segment I attempt to convince you to try massage therapy - or do it more often! Thank you to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Mom, teacher and Canadian small business owner Kerrie Hansler gives us the scoop on her company, Sweet Reads Box, including the highs and lows of starting a business, how the box contents are selected, and how she fosters a love of reading with her twin boys. You can find more details about Sweet Reads (a really fun box which comes with a novel as well as a drink, treat and item that correspond to it in some way) on their site as well as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Also in this episode, I give my take on Rachel Hollis's new book Girl, Stop Apologizing: A Shame-Free Plan for Embracing and Achieving Your Goals, and I try to convince you to get some nice photos of yourself!

Lisa Durante is a consultant who empowers moms in the workplace, and she has great insights to share for working moms and the businesses that employ them. You can find Lisa at her website and on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. In this episode I shared some behind-the-scenes details from my recent appearance on The Morning Show in Toronto. I forgot to mention that afterwards, I drove straight home to change, then back to school for the afternoon. The kids were intrigued by my heavy makeup! I also talked about how sometimes you just need to stop putting it off and just get yourself to the doctor. Thanks to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

In this week's episode, longtime parenting author Ann Douglas answers questions about her fantastic new book, Happy Parents, Happy Kids. Plus, I share my latest read, and chat about growth mindset: what it is, and why you want it for your kids (and yourself). Ann Douglas's new book is Happy Parents, Happy Kids. You can find Ann on her website as well as Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Some Growth Mindset information (from www.biglifejournal.com) Thanks to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

My very special guest, online lifestyle maven Jillian Harris, answers questions about her business success, her Instagram strategy, the biggest design mistake people make, the misconception people have about her and more! You can find Jillian on her website, as well as Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. The new season of Love It or List It Vancouver premieres April 1st on HGTV Canada. You can find the show on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. In this episode of the podcast I also share my tips for improving your smartphone photos, including using Jillian's photo editing presets. I purchased them for mobile and love them! You can find the presets here. I'm sorry I didn't get a chance to ask Jillian all of the questions sent in by listeners. I will save some for next time! If you're interested, my previous Q & A for the blog with Jillian and fiancé Justin in 2017 is here. On an interesting note: the first time I interviewed Jillian back in 2013, I asked her for three items from her bucket list. Her response: "Definitely a couple of kids, more travel (can’t get enough!) and finishing the reno on my house in Kelowna." I think she's done well! If you're new to the podcast, you can find previous episodes of This Mom Loves (with guests like Kortney Wilson, Cynthia Loyst, Tracy Moore, Debbie Travis, Natalie MacMaster and more) here! Thanks as always to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Best-selling author Francine Jay (Miss Minimalist) is here to talk about her new book, and she shares a wealth of ideas for how we can all live more "Lightly". Also in the show, I talk about our sweet Thumper (and I'm not even a pet lover!) as well as inspirational message fatigue. You can find Francine Jay on her website, Miss Minimalist, as well as on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. I'm following her everywhere! Her new book is Lightly: How To Live a Simple, Serene and Stress-Free Life. Here are the looks that convinced us to bring Thumper home (I share the pros and cons of pet rabbits in this episode): And Thumper fully grown: Thanks to my podcast editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Farah Nasser, anchor of Global News Hour and Global News at Noon, talks about her career, including her recent TEDx Talk, being a Muslim woman on television and declining a big TV offer in the US. She also opens up about family and her difficult road to motherhood, as well as her latest #momfail and #momwin. Also in this episode, I share my favourite productivity tips and a couple of book recommendations - of course! When I met Farah and her coanchor Alan Carter in 2015, she was pregnant with her daughter... ...and she even let me sit in her spot at the anchor desk! I did a behind-the-scenes interview with Farah and Alan that day: here are Part 1 & Part 2. Thanks for the great chat, Farah! You can find Farah Nasser on Twitter and Facebook. My recommended books in this episode: The Tattooist of Auschwitz: A Novel by Heather Morris Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney My post with 8 Ways to be More Productive. Thanks to my wonderful editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

In this episode, I share all of the favourite things that my amazing listeners sent in, plus of course a few of my own - including an easy way to choose between me and I! The books I recommended: The Suspect by Fiona Barton The Temp by Michelle Frances An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen Please remember that it means so much if you rate and/or review This Mom Loves wherever you listen to podcasts. Much appreciated! Thanks to my wonderful editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Award-winning fiddler Natalie MacMaster (also a mom of seven) talks music, marriage, parenting, faith and her dream collaboration - let's spread the word to make it happen! I also share a meaningful film and the power of a lunchtime walk! It's particularly fun to interview a friend for the podcast (and to do it in person), and Natalie MacMaster fans will enjoy hearing her speak so openly throughout the in-depth episode! You can find more about Natalie MacMaster, Donnell Leahy and their family on their website. Natalie is also on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and the MacMaster Leahy Kids' updates are on Instagram and Facebook. Here's my 2011 Momterview with Natalie MacMaster - before we ever met! The movie I recommended in this episode is What They Had. If you're new to This Mom Loves, you can find all the past podcast episodes here. Thanks to my wonderful editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

A great gift idea for a new mom, and an interview with Cityline host Tracy Moore: social media, body shaming, racism, parenting and 10 years on Cityline...we cover it all! Plus you don't want to miss her "favourite thing"! You can find Tracy Moore on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Cityline can also be found on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and the show website. Here's a link to all the details about the perfect gift for a new mom. The book I recommended was Better by Amy Robach. Thanks as always to my awesome editor Lukas Wojcicki!

All of your women's health questions answered (even the ones I blushed while repeating) by Dr. Sheila Wijayasinghe, plus I (a declutterer since forever) share my thoughts on the new hit Netflix series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. Some helpful links from Dr. Sheila: Unlock Food Menopause handout Fertility resources Dr. Sheila's article on infertility and navigating the system Article on miscarriage and hope You can find Dr. Sheila on Instagram and Twitter. The book I recommended in the show is The Perfect Girlfriend by Karen Hamilton. Here's the link for Tidying Up with Marie Kondo. Please share your before and afters with me - I love them! Thanks to my editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Finance expert and writer Melissa Leong answers all our money questions, why you should give public compliments, and nonfiction from Michelle Obama and Molly Bloom. You can find Melissa Leong on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and her website. Her fantastic new book is Happy Go Money: Spend Smart, Save Right and Enjoy Life. My book recommendations: Becoming by Michelle Obama Molly's Game by Molly Bloom Thanks to my editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Meredith Kirk chats about interior design (she gets the credit for my big reno), real estate, parenting, faith and celebrity gossip culture (she's also the sister of retired NHLer Mike Fisher and sister-in-law of country singer Carrie Underwood). Plus I share six ways to simplify life (I'm all about simplifying!) and reasons why we should keep reading to our big kids - with book suggestions! You can find Meredith Kirk on Instagram and Facebook. If you want some first-person (i.e., not tabloid) information on Carrie Underwood's difficult 2017, she talks to CBS about her three miscarriages and to Bobby Bones about the fall she took at home resulting in 40-50 stitches on her face and a broken wrist. Here's my full post with 6 Ways To Simplify Life. As mentioned, Eva and I just finished The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, and now we're reading Auggie & Me: 3 Wonder Stories. Thank you to my amazing podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Sleep consultant Alanna McGinn answers all your questions, from newborn sleep right through tips for adults. I share advice for handling head lice, as well as how I do a social media cleanout every once in a while...plus I talk about my new heated vest! For more information on Alanna McGinn: Good Night Sleep Site, Instagram, Facebook This Girl Loves Sleep Podcast Here's my full post about How To Treat Head Lice The apps I use to clean out my social media accounts are Crowdfire for Twitter and Unfollow for Instagram. Here is the heated vest I love so much. Thanks to my editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Eating out with kids, abandoning books and a jam-packed ask me anything! Listeners sent in their questions related to education, beauty, organization, podcasting, TV and more...including my most embarrassing moments! The season finale of This Mom Loves is the most personal one yet! Important links mentioned in this episode The book I recommended: Watching You by Lisa Jewell 10 Commandments For Eating Out With Kids Where Kids Eat Free In Canada Microneedling Facials: My Review The Hosts of The Social: Interview and Behind-the-scenes Some Kate Middleton fashion accounts to follow: What Would Kate Do, Kate's Closet, Budget Duchess, Royal Replikate, Royally Broke, The Royal Watcher In "ask me anything", I answer questions like: "What have been your most embarrassing moments?" "If you know that your child is ahead in a subject, is it better to have him feel confident and review or move further ahead and challenge them?" "Are the hosts of The Social nice in real life?" "Where do you find Kate Middleton repliKate clothing?" "How do you organize receipts?" "Were you this organized when your girls were babies, and if so, share your secrets!" "What are some ways to keep kiddos active and learning through the winter?" "What have you learned about podcasting so far that has surprised you?" "What is your daily skincare and makeup routine like?" Be sure to listen for the answers to these questions and more! Thanks as always to my editor, Lukas Wojcicki! Season 2 of This Mom Loves is only a few weeks away!

A chat with entrepreneur Jenna Herbut, I fill listeners in on the Frock Box subscription box, and tips for getting kids involved with giving back, including The Shoebox Project.   You can find Jenna Herbut at her site and on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Jenna's excellent new book is Make It Happen: The Creative Entrepreneur's Guide To Transforming Your Dreams Into Reality. The clothing subscription box I talked about is Frock Box. Remember to use code THISMOMLOVES (uppercase) to save the styling fee off your first box! (I get a bonus if you do, so thanks!!) Here are a couple of photos of items I've received in my first two boxes.   Kept the dress - and the tie actually goes to the back!   Kept the top and cardigan and I love them!   Click for all of the information you need about The Shoebox Project. And here is the video of Olivia's speech on how kids can give back.     Thanks to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

Laura Vanderkam (time management researcher and writer) shares her expertise, and I talk about a parenting hack I call "the first 5 minutes" as well as two great nonfiction books.     Laura Vanderkam's latest book is Off the Clock: Feel Less Busy While Getting More Done. You can find Laura on her website, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. My book recos: I'll Be There For You: The One About Friends by Kelsey Miller Educated by Tara Westover My parenting hack: You'll have to listen to the show to find out! A big thank you goes out to my show editor Lukas Wojcicki!

Debbie Travis talks about her new book Design Your Next Chapter: How to Realize Your Dreams and Reinvent Your Life, and I share 10 ways to simplify Christmas and why I love medi-pedis!   Debbie's fantastic book (which also includes lots of space for your own notes and ideas) can be found here: Design Your Next Chapter: How to Realize Your Dreams and Reinvent Your Life     (By the way, her last book, perfect for moms from birth to empty nest, is called Not Guilty.) You can also find Debbie on her website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Something that didn't come up in our conversation, but still an interesting tidbit: the first time Debbie was asked to be on Oprah (on a design panel years ago) she had to say no! (There was a work trip to Italy that her boys were also scheduled to join her on and things couldn't be rearranged.) However, not long after she was invited again to come and chat with Oprah, one-on-one that time...a story I keep in mind whenever I feel like saying no to an opportunity is going to ruin my future completely! Debbie's book tour will be crossing the country, so find her at a location near you!     In my first segment I talked about medi-pedis, and for local listeners, I get them here. While you'll want to listen to the podcast for all the great ideas from Facebook followers, you can also read my full blog post with 10 Ways To Simplify Christmas. Thanks to my podcast editor, Lukas Wojcicki!

In this episode I'm sharing a whole show's worth of favourite things: beauty products, cleaning products, books, kids' apps and Netflix bingewatches! Favourites include: Maybelline eyeliner Norwex glass cloth, floor mop system and BacLock kitchen cloth set I Know You by Annabel Kantaria The Good Liar by Catherine McKenzie Apps - ABC Alphabet Phonics, Sight Words by Photo Touch, Alphabet Tracing Free, Rocket Speller, IXL, Big Math Flash Cards, Eye Spot Thanks to my editor, Lukas Wojcicki!