Confessions of a Recovering Micromanaging Perfectionist Martyr

Trying new things has never been my style. But I’ve realized that playing it safe—even with little things, like food—can keep me from growing. This week, I’m challenging myself to face small fears, like adding a sprinkle of paprika (and maybe even flying without the kids!). Join me as I explore how tiny risks can open the door to big changes. 🌶️ JoinTeamConfessions!

For years, I waited for the magical day when I’d want to go to the gym—spoiler: it never came. Now, I work out and stick to my routines not because I want to, but because I feel better (and less grumpy) when I do. In this episode, I’m sharing how self-care routines help each of us in the family bring our “best self” to the table—and why it’s the simplest motivation that keeps me going. 💪 The Next...

Ever wonder what your own “Year in Review” reel would look like? This season, I’m inspired to reflect on my own highlights and hiccups, taking a cue from Coach Dave: “The film never lies.” Join me as I explore how honest self-reflection (and a few small adjustments) can lead to a stronger year ahead—play by play. 📽️ JoinTeamConfessions!

The day after Christmas has officially become “Fend for Yourself Day” in our house—a time to truly unplug and let everyone take care of themselves. After all the holiday hustle, this in-house day off is a gift of rest and restoration, and trust me, everyone benefits when I refuel. Join me as I share why this tradition might be my favorite gift of all. 🎄 💆‍♀️ JoinTeamConfessions!

“Criticize not one bit.” This year, I’m challenging myself to let go of that inner critic—especially with the people closest to me. While parenting requires a bit of guiding and regulating, I’m learning that my relationships don’t benefit from “improving” others. Join me as I reflect on this goal and ask Santa for a little extra grace (and maybe some world peace, too). 🎅 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever notice how the things we see and hear stick with us? This holiday season, I’m setting boundaries on outside influences—from social media to ads—so I can keep my own peace and priorities in check. Join me as I reflect on how being mindful of what I let in helps me stay grounded and avoid the holiday “cray-crays.” 🎄 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever find yourself overwhelmed by holiday “traditions” that just pile up? This year, I’m embracing my motto: “One less wreath at a time.” In this episode, I’m sharing how I’m learning to trim down the holiday to-do list, focusing on what truly brings joy and letting go of the rest—without needing permission. Join me as I reclaim the season, one realistic expectation at a time. 🎄💫 JoinTeamConfess...

Ever feel like a “victim” to unexpected changes at home? This week, I’m sharing how a surprise bunny and unexpected Chromebooks helped me remember the power of pressing life’s “redo” button. Instead of feeling trapped by others’ choices, I’m learning to reroute back to the mindful path I’ve chosen for my family. Join me as I explore turning detours into chances for growth, not blame. 🐰 💻 JoinTea...

As the holidays approach, I’m reflecting on the role of guilt in my life—and how I’m ready to leave it out of the celebration. For years, guilt guided my decisions, steering me where others wanted to go. This season, I’m choosing freedom over guilt, letting go of the pressure to please, and embracing choices that actually support my well-being. Join me as I explore how ditching guilt brings peace...

When the crime rate spikes at home (thanks, kids!), my first reaction is to play Judge Wapner. But I’ve realized it’s less about what’s missing and more about how I handle these little “offenses.” This week, I’m sharing how I’m working on responding instead of reacting—and maybe even creating a space for honesty. Join me as I navigate family “crime” with a little more patience (and maybe a safe fo...

Ever feel that pull between what’s easy and what aligns with your goals? This week, I’m sharing how I’ve learned to focus on small daily choices that support the person I want to be. Join me as I explore why making the “right” choice—even when it’s hard—has made all the difference in shaping my days, my goals, and my life. 💪 JoinTeamConfessions!

Last week, I opened up to my kids about feeling more like Eeyore than Tigger. This week, I’m reflecting on how sharing that vulnerability—rather than hiding it—can actually bring us closer. Inspired by a friend’s bravery and a sweet message from my kids, I’m exploring the idea that “costumes” can reveal, not just conceal, our true selves. 💛 🐯 JoinTeamConfessions!

Grieving openly in front of my kids hasn’t been easy, but I’ve realized the importance of showing them what acknowledged grief looks like—not just hidden pain. In this episode, I’m sharing a letter I wrote to my kids about my journey with loss, and how I hope it teaches them that feeling deeply isn’t something to be ashamed of. Join me as I explore the power of vulnerability, healing, and love. Jo...

Motherhood has been all about finding balance—between fun and respect, love and authority. In this episode, I’m reflecting on how I learned to embrace kindness and patience with my kids (yes, ugh!) to build a relationship based on more than just authority. Join me as I share the ups, downs, and the “healthy fear of the water” that keeps our family afloat. 🌊💙 JoinTeamConfessions!

Today marks sixteen years of marriage to G-Man, the biggest miracle of my life. In this episode, I’m reflecting on a moment from 1994 that set the foundation for our relationship—a quiet promise to love and accept each other just as we are. Join me as I explore how this love has shaped me into someone who truly feels free. 💍 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever feel like you’re failing at “being present”? Lately, I’ve been rethinking what being present means to me—letting go of focusing on every word or detail and instead tuning in to the beauty and blessings around me. Join me as I share how finding presence in unexpected ways brings new meaning to daily life. 💛 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever wish you had a dashboard for your mental stability? With the fall schedule in full swing, I’m seeing those “low patience” and “rage-day warning” lights come on! In this episode, I’m sharing how noticing my emotional “check engine” signs helps me take care of my own tank before it’s empty. Join me for a lighthearted look at mental maintenance and finding balance amid the busyness. 🚗 🧠 JoinTe...

Today would have been my brother’s 45th birthday. In this episode, I’m reflecting on the gift he gave me: the importance of loving others, even when it’s hard. Through his generous spirit and struggles, he taught me lessons about grace, acceptance, and the complexity of loving someone with addiction. Join me as I honor his memory and the powerful legacy of love he left behind. 💙 JoinTeamConfessio...

For years, I let discomfort—physical or emotional—hold me back. If something felt painful, I’d just avoid it. But recently, I’ve found that moving through the discomfort can actually lead to growth. Join me as I share how learning to face both physical and emotional pain has helped me grow stronger, even when the path isn’t easy. 🌱 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever feel sadness turn into anger? This week, I’m reflecting on how my own hurt often morphs into frustration with those around me. Inspired by a tough conversation and a reminder to simply “be sad, not bad,” I’m exploring how acknowledging our pain can keep us from hurting others. Join me as I try to navigate the difference—and bring a little compassion into my own sadness. 💔 JoinTeamConfessions...

Ever notice how the last few minutes of a car ride can feel like the longest? This week, I’m reflecting on why we tend to unravel just before the finish line—and how bending a few rules (even letting the kids yell “VAGINA!”) might actually help me hold it together. Join me as I find a little humor and relief in making it through summer’s final stretch. 🚗💥 JoinTeamConfessions!

Are you handing off the ball or throwing a pass? This week, I’m exploring how knowing the strengths of the “players” in my life—family, friends, and even myself—helps me avoid frustration and disappointment. Inspired by a surprising OJ Simpson fact, I’m sharing my reflections on letting people be who they are and finding more joy in the process. 🏈 JoinTeamConfessions!

August can feel like one long Sunday—should I relax or prepare for what’s next? In this episode, I’m sharing how a small, peaceful pause helps me sift through the endless “to do” list and decide what actually matters. Join me as I explore how even ten minutes of quiet can bring clarity and balance between savoring summer and prepping for the season ahead. ☀️📝 JoinTeamConfessions!

Ever feel like you’re reacting instead of responding? In this episode, I’m sharing how I’m learning to press “pause” and take a breath before jumping into the chaos around me. Inspired by my husband’s calm approach to parenting, I’ve found that holding off on my knee-jerk reactions helps me make choices more aligned with the peace I want. Join me as I explore why sometimes, doing nothing is the be...

Ever come back from a trip and feel like you’re jumping right back into full speed? In this episode, I’m sharing my realization that I don’t have to re-enter life at top speed and the peace I found by choosing to slow down. Join me as I explore the idea of giving myself permission to ease back into routines—because maybe the best route from A to B isn’t always the fastest. 🛣️ JoinTeamConfessions!