The Mom Hour

Let’s go deep on the fluffiest of topics: personal adornment. In today’s More Than Mom episode, Meagan and Sarah share our approaches to everyday jewelry, special gifts and heirloom pieces, jewelry trends and finding our personal styles. We also talk about where we like to buy jewelry, how motherhood seasons have intersected with accessorizing phases, and what our storage wins and woes are these days. Join us!About Our SponsorsFearless FinanceFearless Finance provides on-demand, comprehensive financial planning – it’s a new way to get financial advice without all the headaches, high fees, and commitments that come with traditional financial advisors.Get $50 off your first planning meeting when you use the code MOMHOUR at fearlessfinance.comAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1VionicVionic has the most supportive shoes…ever. Their arch support technology is designed for all-day wear, so that your feet can be comfortable no matter where you are going. Go to vionicshoes.com/themomhour for free shippingScholasticGeared toward tweens and early middle schoolers, Nat For Nothing is great for fans of The Babysitter’s Club, Smile, and Real Friends. It gets right to the heart of middle-school stuff: friends, frenemies, crushes, self-doubt, and figuring out who you really are. Check out Nat For Nothing by Maria Scrivan wherever books are soldLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan referenced the movie Thoroughly Modern Millie with Julie AndrewsIf you enjoyed this episode, you may like these from the archives!Cozy Winter Style Inspiration: Episode 397More Than Mom: Fall Style UpdateMore Than Mom: The State Of Our Style, One Year Into COVIDState Of The Style Situation, Head To Toe: Episode 139Sarah typically purchases earrings from Lucky Brand and has purchased dainty style jewelry from (past podcast advertiser) Ana LuisaMeagan loves Mata Traders, whose founder Meagan interviewed on Mother of ReinventionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s our Podcastaversary (yep, we just made up a new word)! Today we are celebrating eight years of The Mom Hour by reflecting on some of your most-asked questions over the years. Beyond recurring queries like “should I have that third baby?” or “what’s the ideal spacing between kids?,” we’re digging into some deeper through-lines that point to the fears, insecurities, and hopes of our community. We also provide snapshots of the many places we have recorded our 640+ episodes (the floor, the bed, different states and more). Join us!About Our SponsorsFearless FinanceFearless Finance provides on-demand, comprehensive financial planning – it’s a new way to get financial advice without all the headaches, high fees, and commitments that come with traditional financial advisors. Get $50 off your first planning meeting when you use the code MOMHOUR at fearlessfinance.comPinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentCare.comCare.com makes it easy to find local, experienced, and background-checked childcare to help manage your family’s ever-changing needs. Sign up at care.com/book and see why over 3 million families use this amazing platformHiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkoutLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeIf you want to take it WAY back to March of 2015, you can listen to The Mom Hour’s Very First episode, Mom Meltdowns, Oh No! Episode 01.Sarah mentioned the episode Business Behind-The-Scenes & State Of The Podcast Chat: Episode 396.Sarah just finished reading Tiny, Beautiful Things by Cheryl Strayed which is a compilation of the author’s Dear Sugar articles over the years.Here is a great list of Dear Sugar’s quotes in one place.The Mom Hour Listener Community Page on Facebook is a helpful space to vent or to ask moms for advice.Meagan’s reading Laura Tremaine’s book Share Your Stuff, I’ll Go First (this is an affiliate link) which encourages people to be open up and be vulnerable with others.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bowling. Bonfires. The mall (no, really.) And board games (maybe?). What’s fun for our families right now looks quite different than it did years ago, so today Meagan and Sarah revisit an oft-discussed hot topic on The Mom Hour: family “fun.” We share several ideas for ACTUALLY FUN family activities that work for our current seasons, as well as some gripes about things that feel like they should be fun but aren’t. Join us!About Our SponsorsPinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentFearless FinanceFearless Finance provides on-demand, comprehensive financial planning – it’s a new way to get financial advice without all the headaches, high fees, and commitments that come with traditional financial advisors. Get $50 off your first planning meeting when you use the code MOMHOUR at fearlessfinance.comPrep DishPrep Dish is a mom-owned business, created by our friend Allison, who is a registered dietician and a chef. When you sign up, every week Allison will send you meal plans, shopping lists, and prep instructions that allow you to prep healthy meals ahead of time for the week. To get two weeks of meal plans FREE, go to PrepDish.com/themomhourScholasticWhen Things Aren’t Going Right, Go Left is a collaboration between bestselling illustrator Peter H. Reynolds and debut author Marc Colagiovanni. It features beautiful art and creative wordplay that remind all of us readers of the power we have to direct our own path. When Things Aren’t Going Right, Go Left is available now wherever books are sold!Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeOther deep-dives on what’s fun and what’s absolutely not include:We Hate Fun! (Okay, Not All Fun) (Episode 10, which later re-ran with a fresh take as Episode 109)What We Do For Fun In 2021 (More Than Mom)“Supposed To Be Fun” Activities That Just Aren’t (And How To Have Fun On Your Terms) (Episode 342)We Love Fun Now! (Or Do We? (Episode 215)Don’t forget to check out what’s new on the blog!Fun & Practical Easter Basket Ideas Your Kids Will Love by Sandy HsuYes, YOU Can Coach Youth Sports! by Jennifer Carroll8 Activities To Make Spring Break At Home With Little Kids Bearable (And Fun!) by Emily RoarkHow To Survive (And Even Enjoy) Playing Board Games With Kids: Episode 112 pairs nicely with today’s episode as we talked a good bit about board games today!Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It isn’t always easy to appreciate the mundane tasks of our daily lives, or to see the glass half-full when something goes awry. Inspired by yet another social media trend that had us scratching our heads at first (and then reflecting in spite of our forty-something selves), today Meagan and Sarah talk about situations from our own lives where we romanticized the hard stuff to get by. Join us!About Our SponsorsAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1VionicVionic has the most supportive shoes…ever. Their arch support technology is designed for all-day wear, so that your feet can be comfortable no matter where you are going. Go to vionicshoes.com/themomhour for free shippingFearless FinanceFearless Finance provides on-demand, comprehensive financial planning – it’s a new way to get financial advice without all the headaches, high fees, and commitments that come with traditional financial advisors. Get $50 off your first planning meeting when you use the code MOMHOUR at fearlessfinance.comLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeSarah recommends reading this New York Times article to better understand the phrase “romanticize your life.”Meagan read a newsletter article by our friend Amy Clark of Mom Advice which inspired this episode.Meagan interviewed Melody Warnick about placemaking, and how making a commitment to communities helps romanticize the hard stuff. Listen to the MOR episode on this topic!Sarah is rereading the book How To Raise An Adult by Julie Lythcott-Haimes (This is an affiliate link)We’d love to hear from you about how you’re romanticizing the hard stuff in your life! Email us at hello@themomhour.comContinue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Worrying as a mom is a universal experience (and, spoiler alert: it never REALLY goes away). Today Meagan and Sarah look back over the years on the worries that surface most often in our community. Going by the questions we get from listeners, moms worry a lot about safety (our kids’, our own, the state of the world); and we also worry about WORRY (are we worried about the “right” things? is our worry creating anxiety in our kids?). Join us as we revisit these questions and more with that well-worn reminder: it’s (probably) all going to be okay.About Our SponsorsEveryPlateEveryPlate, is America’s best value meal kit and can be a great tool to help you save money and make mealtime easier. For just $1.49 per meal, go to everyplate.com/podcast and enter code themomhour149CarawayCaraway makes non-toxic pots and pans, bakeware, teakettles, and food storage containers – all in gorgeous colors. Visit Carawayhome.com/THEMOMHOUR to take advantage of this limited-time offer for 10% off your next purchaseVionicVionic has the most supportive shoes…ever. Their arch support technology is designed for all-day wear, so that your feet can be comfortable no matter where you are going. Go to vionicshoes.com/themomhour for free shippingPinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeJanine asked how to deal with anxiety around kids staying physically safe in Episode 110 (2017) .If you find yourself worrying about the physical safety of your children, you may want to check out Episode 12: What Does ‘Free-Range Parenting’ Really Look Like? It can give you another perspective!Avery’s question “What things in the beginning of motherhood did you feel were super important, but as you had more children they became less important” was originally featured in Listener Questions: Episode 110.Sarah recommended the episode More Things We Shouldn’t Have Freaked Out About: Episode 265Theresa’s question about flying originally appeared in Listener Questions (Vol. 18): Episode 199.A mom who worries about her boys growing up and moving away first aired in Listener Questions (Vol. 30): Episode 303.April asks Meagan and Sarah how to stay updated with the news without over worrying in Listener Questions (Vol. 22): Episode 240.Shannon wonders how to best keep things moving along while she’s struggling with anxiety in Listener Questions (Vol. 33): Episode 318.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pitching, submitting, and financial uncertainty: the writerly life isn’t easy before kids come into the mix, but as a writer-mom it’s even trickier. In today’s episode, Meagan chats with contributor and full-time professional writer Joanne Ruelos Diaz to talk all things writing. We discuss how we each landed in this career, how we balance motherhood and writing, our hopes for the future and some advice about how to dive in to this creative outlet, whether it’s for personal or professional goals. Enjoy!About Our SponsorsScholastic, Inc.Acorn books help build confident readers, and ultimately develop a lifelong love of reading. There’s a series for every reader, with themes like friendship, humor, magic, dragons and even horror-lite. Acorn books are available wherever books are sold!Care.comCare.com makes it easy to find local, experienced, and background-checked childcare to help manage your family’s ever-changing needs. Sign up at care.com/book and see why over 3 million families use this amazing platformPinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentHiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkoutLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan mentioned the book Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert (this is an affiliate link).Meagan mentioned the book The Way Of The Fearless Writer by Beth Kempton.Want to learn more about Joanne? Follow her on Instagram, check out the work she’s done on her website, and order her book “The Little Book of Joy.” (This is an affiliate link)Check out some of the blog posts Joanne has written for The Mom Hour:How I’m Decluttering My Brain In 2023Emergency Room Visits With Kids: What I Wish I’d Known, Packed, Said & DoneFast Five: The Dinner-Table Game I Play To Connect With My Kids“This Is Too Hard!”: How I’m Showing My Kids The Importance Of Doing Hard ThingsWatching My Friends’ Teenagers On Instagram Led To The Stuffed Animal OlympicsYou can find more on Meagan’s writing projects below:Read some of Meagan’s personal writing on her website.Catch up on some articles from Meagan’s magazine Reinvent.Meagan wrote the book “The Happiest Mom: 10 Secrets To Enjoying Motherhood.”If you’re interested in reading more about midlife motherhood, you can purchase Meagan’s January/February Reinvent Magazine.If you’re looking for more information about writing, you may want to listen to More Than Mom: Writing, Motherhood & Creative Practice or read the blog post “How I Started Writing.”Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you ever find yourself dreaming of a creative outlet or pursuit outside of your day-to-day life? Maybe you've thought about becoming an artist, opening a coffee shop, or even starting your own podcast! In this episode, Meagan and Sarah are talking about some of our dream businesses--and we include some from our team of contributors, too! Plus, Meagan gives an update on her actual new business endeavor that started as a dream and is turning into reality this year. Enjoy!About Our SponsorsAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1.VionicVionic has the most supportive shoes…ever. Their arch support technology is designed for all-day wear, so that your feet can be comfortable no matter where you are going. Go to vionicshoes.com/themomhour for free shipping.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeYou heard from our contributors Emily, Joanne and Jayme in this episode. You can learn more about them on our contributor page. Meagan mentioned the book Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert (this is an affiliate link). You can follow along with Meagan's journey of renovating a building and opening a book store at @papermillbooks or @themillmanistique on instagram. You can support Meagan's bookstore at this link.In this episode of Mother of Reinvention Meagan chats with her sister Kathreen about taking the leap to buy a building and open a book store (with their significant others).Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you have "mom mission statements"? Pillars or values that guide your parenting and ground your confidence when its shaken? We didn't - but now we do! In Episode 405 Meagan and Sarah offer up our personal motherhood mission statements by finishing the sentence "As I mom I...". Join us!About Our SponsorsHiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkout.PinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentRitualRitual is formulated with key nutrients, including Vitamin D3, to help fill gaps in the diet. Ritual is now available for women, men, and teens, scientifically developed to help support different life stages including their bestselling prenatal multivitamin. Get 10% off your first three months at ritual.com/THEMOMHOURCare.comCare.com makes it easy to find local, experienced, and background-checked childcare to help manage your family's ever-changing needs. Sign up at care.com/book and see why over 3 million families use this amazing platform.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeSarah loves the book Catastrophic Happiness by Catherine Newman, a memoir about the middle years of motherhood (this is an affiliate link). We are open to an episode about Family Mission Statements. If you have an idea for that, or an author or idea for it, send us an email!Don't miss our LIVE episode on Instagram in our subscriber community on February 22! What’s Helping Me Put My Phone Down (And Keep It Down) by our contributor Stacy Bronec is new on the blog (and a great read!).Loving this episode? Here are a few that pair nicely with today's topic:What REALLY Matters In Parenting? Episode 386Self-Improvement & Self-Acceptance In Motherhood: Episode 3738 Truths Every Mom Needs To Hear: Episode 369What Are Your “Mom Superpowers”?: Episode 44Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

UR Cute. Be Mine. XOXO. Happy Valentine’s Day, everyone (and happy birthday to Sarah)! No better day than today to talk all things kids, crushes, and budding romance. Join us as we discuss parenting kids through crushes, romance, and relationships, how much our kids share with us about their love lives, what we think about adults projecting romance onto toddlers and preschoolers, and what we hope for future relationships with our kids’ partners. We also throw in a few of our childhood Valentine’s Day memories and have a VERY serious discussion about conversation hearts. Enjoy!About Our SponsorsCozy EarthCozy Earth’s bath collection comes in a variety of soothing and serene colors and features ultra-absorbent and durable bamboo bath towels, mats, and washcloths. Save 35% with promo code THEMOMHOUR at cozyearth.comPinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentFutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future todayStitch FixStitch Fix makes shopping for clothes so easy. Take a style quiz, then Stitch Fix’s expert stylists will find items exclusively for you. Keep what you love and send back what you don’t. Go to stitchfix.com/themomhour to get $20 off your first purchaseLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan mentioned reading L. M. Montgomery’s The Story Girl. (This is an affiliate link.)Meagan read about the history of Conversation Hearts in this article.Looking for more episodes on love, relationships and romance? Here are some of our faves from the archives:Dating & Romance (For Single Moms & Married Ones, Too!): Voices 45More Than Mom: Finding Love After DivorceMore Than Mom: Partners & PersonalitiesMore Than Mom: Our Childhood CrushesMeagan wrote Love, dating, and healing after divorce – Sunday Morning Tea if you’re looking for more Valentine-y content this week.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Accepting and embracing the body changes that come with motherhood and midlife isn’t easy – and it’s a challenge that listeners write to us about a lot. While the conversation is (and must!) be nuanced, and the prevailing wisdom on this topic constantly changing, today we’re taking it on the only way we know how: from personal experience. Join Meagan and Sarah for an honest exchange about what body confidence means to us (spoiler: it’s not all about weight or size), where we feel self-conscious and what we’ve let go of, and what we appreciate about our midlife bodies. Join us!About Our SponsorsCozy EarthCozy Earth’s bath collection comes in a variety of soothing and serene colors and features ultra-absorbent and durable bamboo bath towels, mats, and washcloths. Save 35% with promo code THEMOMHOUR at cozyearth.comAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1PinnaPinna is the only audio on-demand streaming service for kids 3-12, with podcasts, audiobooks, and music all in one safe place with no ads, and no staring at a screen. Just listening. Go to pinna.fm/promo and use the promo code THEMOMHOUR for 50% off your first annual paymentEveryPlateEveryPlate, is America’s best value meal kit and can be a great tool to help you save money and make mealtime easier. For just $1.49 per meal, go to everyplate.com/podcast and enter code themomhour149Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan and Sarah first visited this topic in Body Confidence As A Mom: Episode 99Sarah has shared her gray hair growout progress on InstaMeagan mentioned a book by Donna Fahri, a yoga instructor who wrote the book Yoga Mind, Body & Spirit where she talks about the importance of being able to do everyday movement with easeMeagan interviewed Zeena Dhalla (an IRL friend of Sarah’s, too) about Living in Alignment in episode two of The Mother Of Reinvention podcastContinue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A peek into pantry cupboards reveals a lot about how a family lives and the season of life they’re in. Today Meagan and Sarah open our own pantry doors and chat about what we see: from dry goods staples to kid-approved snacks and some things that are “just for mom,” we’ve got small joys and pesky frustrations in the pantry – just like any other area of the house! We also discuss the “ingredient household” TikTok trend that has moms reflecting on how they grew up and how they’re feeding their families. Join us!About Our SponsorsPrep DishPrep Dish is a mom-owned business, created by our friend Allison, who is a registered dietician and a chef. When you sign up, every week Allison will send you meal plans, shopping lists, and prep instructions that allow you to prep healthy meals ahead of time for the week. To get two weeks of meal plans FREE, go to PrepDish.com/themomhourFutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future todayCarawayCaraway makes non-toxic pots and pans, bakeware, teakettles, and food storage containers – all in gorgeous colors. Visit Carawayhome.com/THEMOMHOUR to take advantage of this limited-time offer for 10% off your next purchaseCozy EarthCozy Earth’s bath collection comes in a variety of soothing and serene colors and features ultra-absorbent and durable bamboo bath towels, mats, and washcloths. Save 35% with promo code THEMOMHOUR at cozyearth.comLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeThis viral TikTok video made its way to Instagram and inspired this episode. Do you live in a snack household or an ingredient household?A great companion to this episode is What’s In Our Fridge and Freezer Right Now: Episode 381Meagan mentioned Burples which were popular in the 80sSarah remembered coveting other kids’ SqueezitzMeagan and Sarah love the OXO Pop Top Containers (affiliate link) for pantry essentialsSarah loves her bamboo tea box organizer, similar to this one (affiliate link)We both have this rice cookerMeagan mentioned this recipe for Chicken Tagine with Apricots and AlmondsContinue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Big black trash bag energy is in full effect over here! In this episode Sarah is joined by contributor Joanna Martin for a conversation about how, why and what we are getting rid of this January. We talk strategic home resets, major junk-hauling, and tips for ongoing clutter maintenance. And while on the surface this episode is about physical stuff, we also acknowledge the emotional complexity that surrounds getting rid of stuff. Enjoy!About Our SponsorsHiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkout.FutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future todayAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeFollow Joanna’s 2023 home reset progress in this highlight on her InstagramJoanna follows Kathryn Whitaker on Instagram for inspiration for home declutteringJoanna enjoyed the book Organized Simplicity by Tsh Oxenreider (affiliate link)Sarah’s recent decluttering involved 1-800-Got-JunkWe discussed consignment stores like Once Upon A Child and Kid To Kid, which have locations in several states, as well as Thred Up for online consigningSarah liked using Pickupplease.org which is available in many cities to schedule a pickup donation.Joanna loves to follow Kate Strickler’s Naptime Kitchen account on instagram and enjoyed The Home Reset, a practical course by Naptime Kitchen created for decluttering and organizing a home.Both Sarah and Joanna use Buy Nothing to get rid of stuff.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does solitude come naturally to your kids, or are moments of solo play far and few between? Meagan and Sarah read some research recently that challenged us to think about the importance of alone time, and whether our kids get enough. In this episode, we dive into our own childhood memories, how our children embrace (or run from) solitude, and how challenging it is to find that just-right balance. Join us!About Our SponsorsStitch FixStitch Fix makes shopping for clothes so easy. Take a style quiz, then Stitch Fix’s expert stylists will find items exclusively for you. Keep what you love and send back what you don’t. Go to stitchfix.com/themomhour to get $20 off your first purchaseChatbooksChatbooks is the easiest way to make photo books! The books come in different sizes, with beautiful cover options and binding styles, and prices start at just $15. Head to themomhour.com/chatbooks for a special offerLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeSarah and Meagan referenced the article in The Atlantic titled How Much Alone Time Do Kids Need? by Faith Hill, published in November 2022.Have you checked out our Merch Shop?! We’d love to see you with some Mom Hour gear. Please share photos of you with our merch and tag us on social!The best way not to miss a blog post is to sign up for our newsletter.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With all the day-to-day planning required to run a household, it’s easy to put longterm planning on the back burner. Today Meagan and Sarah share lessons we’ve learned (or are still learning) that help us look ahead at a whole year, quarter, or month at a time. From knowing ourselves and our seasonal rhythms to figuring out where they keep next year’s school calendar, we’ve picked up a few things over the years, and we’re ready to dive in for 2023. Join us!About Our SponsorsFutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future todayMintedMinted is marketplace for independent artists who create all kinds of things: home decor, table linens, journals, stationary, and original art. Visit themomhour.com/minted to check out some Minted products we’re eyeing right now – plus some great deals just for youFableticsFabletics has the most stylish activewear, and a VIP subscription is a great way to re-build your workout wardrobe and stock up on cute, comfy basics. Head to themomhour.com/fabletics to get 2 bottoms for just $24Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeOn Wednesday, we’ll be LIVE on instagram for our subscribers only. Go to our instagram page to subscribe to hang with us!Did you enjoy this episode and want more on planning? Here are episodes from the archives All About Planning:Oh Hey, It’s May. (End Of School Chaos): Episode 365How Planners Plan: Voices 68 With Christine Koh and Sarah Hart-UngerStaying Organized & Motivated As A Full-Time Working Mom: Voices 44 With Sarah Hart-UngerProductivity & Time Management Tips For Mom: Episode 169Episodes from the archives to help plan your summer:It’s Time To Plan For Summer: Episode 201(Realistic) Summer Schedule Intentions: Episode 263Glad I Did / Wish I’d Done: Summer Planning: Episode 359Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

C-e-l-e-b-r-a-t-e good times, come on! Today’s episode is number 400! We can’t think of a better way to celebrate hitting a big podcast milestone than talking about how we honor birthdays and milestone celebrations in our families – especially as kids get older. Join Meagan and Sarah as we offer insight into making birthdays special for big kids, tweens and teens; how kids getting older hits us differently as moms, too; and how honoring big kid milestones gets tricker, but still gives us all the feels. Enjoy!About Our SponsorsAthletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1.REINVENTThe new name for Meagan’s community for midlife moms is: REINVENT – and it also ties in with the name of her new bimonthly magazine! Go to meaganfrancis.com/bonus to get both a 20% discount on an annual membership to the REINVENT Community AND a free issue of REINVENT magazine.Hiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkout.The Essential CalendarSee a whole season at a glance in a stylish poster that hangs on your wall – AND help support a mom-owned business and our podcast at the same time! Save 10% with code THEMOMHOUR or use this link: theessentialcalendar.com/themomhour. When you do, we’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeGreat News! You can now listen to all 630 Episodes of The Mom Hour in your favorite podcast app!This episode pairs well with EP 166: Last Firsts & First Lasts (Milestones We Notice, And A Bunch We Miss)Sarah referred to Episode 364: Talking About Our Own Kids Or Not which sheds some light about how we decide what to share (and not) about our kids on the podcast.Check out our latest blog where we share some of our Team’s Best of Oldies episode recommendations.Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

New year, new you…or, maybe just a bit of new energy? Every January we are bombarded with content about goal setting, resolutions, simplifying things and planning out our calendar in detail for the entire year. And while some years January finds us ready to dive in head first, other years we need a bit of inspiration before getting our New Year’s juices flowing. In today’s episode, Meagan and Sarah share how we’re using the first weeks of 2023 to reflect on the past and gently start to look toward the future. We share what we are doing, thinking about and consuming to help us set the stage for a great year. Join us!About Our SponsorsPrep DishPrep Dish is a mom-owned business, created by our friend Allison, who is a registered dietician and a chef. When you sign up, every week Allison will send you meal plans, shopping lists, and prep instructions that allow you to prep healthy meals ahead of time for the week. To get two weeks of meal plans FREE, go to PrepDish.com/themomhourFutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future todayCarawayCaraway makes non-toxic pots and pans, bakeware, teakettles, and food storage containers – all in gorgeous colors. Visit Carawayhome.com/THEMOMHOUR to take advantage of this limited-time offer for 10% off your next purchaseChatbooksChatbooks is the easiest way to make photo books! The books come in different sizes, with beautiful cover options and binding styles, and prices start at just $15. Head to themomhour.com/chatbooks for a special offerLinks We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeCheck out the latest episode of the Mother of Reinvention podcast that’s all about Meagan and Sarah’s personalities and how our personalities impact the way we make plans and see the world. And if you want to listen to the extended conversation, consider joining Meagan’s community for midlife moms, REINVENT!For bullet journaling inspiration, Sarah loves Meghan Splawn’s “planner not planner” approach to creating her own notebook spreads, and loves looking at artistic weekly spreads like this one, this one, this one, and this one.Sarah was drawing super boring monthly calendar grids until she saw examples like this, this, this, this, and this.Meagan plans to work her way through organizing her home throughout the entire year. To hear more about how she plans to tackle her Laundry Room, listen to Episode 398: The Laundry Awards.Sarah listened to the audiobook Calm Christmas And A Happy New Year by Beth Kempton that includes a pdf for reflecting on the past year. There’s also a Calm Christmas Podcast if you want to take a listen. Beth’s motivational style is very gentle and cozy.Sarah always gets Big Life Journal’s Goal Setting printables for her kids each year – this year they even ASKED for them!Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laundry is is a constant: it’s truly with us every day, week, and month of the year. In this first episode of 2023, Meagan and Sarah focus in on the laundry systems and strategies that are working (or not) in our homes, plus our favorite products, the grossest things we deal with, what’s great (and weird) about our laundry rooms, and how seasons of life change the challenges of keeping up with the laundry. If you wear clothes – or live with people who do – this episode is for you. About Our SponsorsThe Essential CalendarSee a whole season at a glance in a stylish poster that hangs on your wall – AND help support a mom-owned business and our podcast at the same time! Save 10% with code THEMOMHOUR or use this link: theessentialcalendar.com/themomhour. When you do, we’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.REINVENTThe new name for Meagan’s community for midlife moms is: REINVENT – and it also ties in with the name of her new bimonthly magazine! Go to meaganfrancis.com/bonus to get both a 20% discount on an annual membership to the REINVENT Community AND a free issue of REINVENT magazine.Stitch FixStitch Fix makes shopping for clothes so easy. Take a style quiz, then Stitch Fix’s expert stylists will find items exclusively for you. Keep what you love and send back what you don’t. Go to stitchfix.com/themomhour to get $20 off your first purchase.FutureThe Future app is a new way to do one-on-one personal training that’s all about custom workouts and unlimited support — whenever, wherever, and however you need it. Visit tryfuture.com/momhour to start your 30-day, risk-free trial of Future today.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan recommends the book Laundry Love: Finding Joy In A Common Chore for a great reference for changing up your laundry game in the new year. (This is an affiliate link.)Sarah gives her laundry product MVP award to this flexible laundry basket.Meagan’s MVP award goes to this square laundry basket.If you loved this episode, check out episode 167 from the archives “Loads And Loads (And Loads) Of Laundry!The holidays tend to make our minds go on overdrive. Our contributor Joanne Ruellos Diaz has a great blog post about how to declutter your brain in 2023!Next week’s episode will be all about goal planning for 2023. We hope you’ll join us!Continue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As work-from-home moms, we’re perpetually seeking comfort and warmth during the winter months – stopping JUST SHY of living in pajamas 24/7. If your cozy winter wardrobe needs an update or you’re itching to do some post-Christmas shopping, listen to Episode 397 for Meagan’s and Sarah’s cold-weather fashion faves. Join us!About Our SponsorsHiya HealthHiya is a daily children’s vitamin that’s stronger, cleaner, and tastier — made from a blend of 12 farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and 15 essential vitamins. For 50% OFF your first order go to hiyahealth.com/MOMHOUR or enter code MOMHOUR at checkout.Athletic GreensAG1 by Athletic Greens is the category-leading superfood product, bringing comprehensive and convenient daily nutrition to every body. The AG1 powder from Athletic Greens is lifestyle-friendly whether you eat keto, paleo, vegan, dairy-free or gluten-free, and contains less than 1 gram of sugar, no GMOs, no nasty chemicals or artificial anything. Go to athleticgreens.com/momhour for a year’s supply of Vitamin D and five free travel packs with your first purchase of AG1.MOR CommunityMeagan’s Mother of Reinvention Community is a private, members-only space designed to support and encourage midlife moms as they answer the question: What’s next? Get a 20% discount on an annual membership to the MOR Community at meaganfrancis.com/bonusThe Essential CalendarSee a whole season at a glance in a stylish poster that hangs on your wall – AND help support a mom-owned business and our podcast at the same time! Save 10% with code THEMOMHOUR or use this link: theessentialcalendar.com/themomhour. When you do, we’ll earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeMeagan’s Cozy MentionsMeagan’s loving her Vuori pants in a wide-legged drawstring style, a jogger, and a harem pant.Sweater favs? This alpaca wool sweater and cashmere batwing sweaters from Quince!Meagan added this green sweater dress and this date-night dress to her wardrobe paired with Sheertex tights.The Gwen tall boot from Vionic has been Meagan’s ride-or-die this winter (Vionic is a sponsor – get free shipping with code THEMOMHOUR)Meagan got some new Land’s End jammies on recommendation from a friend.Harper Wilde Bliss BrasSarah’s Cozy MentionsFavorite pants right now are from Lululemon Like New and she manages to exit the home Old Navy jogger-style PJ pants and style them as if they are NOT pajamas.When in the house, she’s 100% in these J Crew Factory Slippers!Current shoe faves are the Breilin Sneaker in Vapor from Vionic (Vionic is a sponsor – get free shipping with code THEMOMHOUR), and the Ecco Women’s Soft 7 SneakerOne of her fav sweaters is close to this one from Lunya.Sarah also has the Cassie Knit Cardi from Jane (affiliate link)For layering purposes, Sarah has had good luck with Target’s Merona line or this Madewell Tank – but could use a few more recommendations!Don’t miss Chaunie’s new blog post Care For yourSELF In 2023 With These 9 Products To Manage AnxietyContinue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Running a full-time independent podcast company keeps us busy – so busy that we don’t often pause to let listeners in to how it all works! As we approach the end of 2022, Meagan and Sarah share what’s up behind the scenes at The Mom Hour. We start with a lightning round of frequently asked questions (how’d we meet? do we fight? how does the podcast make money?) and move into bigger thoughts about our industry as a whole and the current economic landscape. We also take a look back at how we’ve grown over the years (particularly the past two), profess our love for fellow women podcasters whose names you’ll definitely recognize, and share what’s next for The Mom Hour. Enjoy!Links We Mentioned (Or Should Have) In This EpisodeSarah referenced this episode of Pantsuit Politics which provides some behind-the-scenes information about the state of the podcast industry.Meagan wrote a guide for supporting content creators during a recession that’s PACKED with ideasWe couldn’t do this without the support of our podcast people! We encourage you to check out their podcasts to support them!The Lazy GeniusSorta Awesome10 Things To Tell YouThe PopcastWhat Should I Read NextPantsuit PoliticsWhat Fresh Hell: Laughing In The Face Of MotherhoodThe Girl Next DoorEdit Your LifeDidn’t I Just Feed YouContinue the conversation:Instagram | Private Facebook Community (be sure to answer the membership questions!)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You've got holiday parenting questions, and Meagan and Sarah have answers. In this very merry Listener Questions episode, we tackle things like how to make the magic happen for your littles while traveling and spending Christmas at grandparents, how to coordinate and facilitate sibling gift giving, how to keep a curious kitten (or two) out of the tree (this is our reality this year!) and suggestions for how to handle the post-holiday blues of packing away Christmas. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.