Secret Mom Hacks: Mom Life & Parenting Tips for Busy First Time Moms

Do you, your child(ren), or another loved one have ADHD? Then you can't miss this empowering conversation with today's special guest, Peter Shankman . He's a six-time bestselling author and host of the Faster Than Normal podcast, who champions the idea of viewing ADHD not as a challenge, but as a superpower. Peter shares personal anecdotes about parenting with ADHD, highlighting strategies like ea...

With Easter just over a month away, today's episode offers meaningful activities and conversation prompts that go beyond chocolate bunnies and egg hunts. We discuss age-appropriate ways to share the true essence of Easter—Jesus' love, sacrifice, and resurrection. Today's show explores unique ideas like "egging" neighbors with uplifting messages and baking Resurrection Rolls with the kiddos. Whethe...

On today's heartfelt episode, I welcome New York Times bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and wildly successful podcast host Annie F. Downs to the show. She shares the inspiration behind her latest children's book, " Where Did TJ Go? ," crafted to assist parents and children in navigating grief and loss. Discover how Annie and her family transformed their personal sorrow into a touching nar...

To celebrate American Heart Month, we're rewinding back to episode 56 to dive into heart-healthy habits for busy moms. We discuss smart snacking tips, fun ways to incorporate physical activity, the power of laughter, the importance of me-time, and prioritizing quality sleep. From swapping out chips for crunchy veggies to turning everyday moments into dance parties, these hacks are designed to supp...

I'm all about affirmations. As we get the first month of 2025 under our belt, today we're talking through some New Year's affirmations tailored specifically for busy moms. We're exploring the importance of self-care, celebrating small wins, and embracing each day as a fresh start. Inspired by Hazel Cherry's blog post from DC Area Moms, we discuss transformative affirmations to help moms prioritize...

As we plan and prepare for the year ahead, today's episode rewinds to one of my conversations with Lo Nigrosh from the Milk Making Minutes podcast . Lo, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), shares essential advice on creating a breastfeeding support network, the role of online and in-person groups, and maintaining health and nutrition while breastfeeding. We also dive int...

We're celebrating episode 100 by diving into the show's top 5 episodes. Let's revisit our most impactful conversations, including essential breastfeeding tips for first-time moms, calmer parenting techniques, and more. Whether you're navigating emotional challenges with littles or preparing for motherhood, this episode offers invaluable insights and heartfelt reflections. Plus, get ready for a new...

Merry Christmas, friends! The holiday season tends to be a reflective time of year for many of us and this year is no different. Join me as I break down my 24 in '24. I share some of my notable accomplishments, along with my candid disclosure of unmet goals. My honest reflection serves as a reminder that it is acceptable to carry over some ambitions into the next year. With a blend of introspectio...

Struggling to whip up easy, healthy, family-friendly meals amid the holiday hustle?! This is the ultimate meal prep guide for busy moms like you! We'll cover time-saving solutions from crock pot meals to sheet pan dinners and hearty casseroles. I share my favorite tips to reduce holiday stress, such as batch cooking, crock pot liners, and involving the kids in meal prep. Think healthy, comforting...

Today we dive deep into the power of mom communities with our special guest, Mariela, host of the New Mom Talk podcast . We explore her journey of identifying a gap in resources and connections for moms and how it inspired her to foster several vibrant communities. From organizing intimate, engaging events like outdoor sensory classes to fitness meetups, Mariela shares the secrets to combatting is...

Today's show rewinds back to the most downloaded episode of Secret Mom Hacks, offering essential baby registry recommendations. We cover everything from stocking up on diapers and wipes to the best baby carriers. I share several personal favorites like the ExerSaucer and my recommended baby monitor, while also highlighting the cost-saving benefits of consignment stores for baby clothes. This episo...

Today we're covering screen-free holiday family activities that will make the whole season special! We'll cover everything from gratitude jars and family storytelling on Thanksgiving to DIY ornament crafting, outdoor scavenger hunts, and more. Whether you’re looking to reconnect over a homemade craft or kick off a new family tradition, these ideas are perfect for stepping away from screens and mak...

We're well into the throes of the holiday season, so for many parents that means 'tis the season to rack up sales and get gift shopping checked off our lists. On today's episode we get real about protecting our loved ones, particularly the senior citizens in our lives, from the surge of cyber scams that come out of the woodwork this time of year. We'll go over everything from recognizing red flags...

Today's episode covers a topic that every parent should be aware of: carbon monoxide safety in daycares. Haley Montgomery re-joins us to share her scary experience with a carbon monoxide leak at her child's daycare in Nashville. We’ll discuss how this life-threatening incident opened her eyes to the alarming lack of CO monitors in childcare facilities. Haley shares essential steps parents can take...

Today's episode uncovers the unique challenges and triumphs of balancing a career in the music industry with the world's most demanding job—parenthood. We're joined by Haley Montgomery, co-founder of Family Alliance in Music , who sheds light on the support and resources this nonprofit offers parents navigating the fast-paced music industry. From adjusting maternity leave policies to sharing inspi...

As I gear up for my first marathon, we rewind back to episode 23 to explore why running has become a transformational workout for me, especially as a busy mom. I'll share the physical and mental benefits that running offers. Discover how running aids in stress relief, boosts energy levels, improves mental health, and even promotes better sleep quality—a game changer for moms! I dive into some pers...

This episode delves into the complexities of balancing a rewarding career alongside the demands of motherhood, featuring insights from Sarene Leeds, host of the Emotional Abuse Is Real podcast. Today's show concludes my four-part series with Sarene, but hopefully it won't be our last! ;) We tackle everything from the pressures of a grueling commute to the freedom found in remote work. Discover why...

Today we're covering a topic every mom needs to hear about—how to protect your family memories from the pitfalls of social media. As we near Halloween and other holidays, it's the perfect time to reassess where you're storing your precious moments. Hear my personal experience of getting hacked on Facebook and Instagram, leading to an irreplaceable loss of photos and videos. I share the risks of re...

This episode covers the realities of modern parenting with Christine Peacock from Peacock Parent . She's the ultimate efficiency guru for busy moms and dads! We discuss Christine's transformative birth stories, navigating c-sections, and the pivotal motherhood lesson that you can't control it all. Christine shares her mission behind Peacock Parent and explains how she helps parents get more time b...

Halloween may be synonymous with "sugar rush," but on today's show, I've got 7 healthy, yummy, and easy Halloween treats your little ghouls and goblins will love! We'll make cute witch brooms using pretzel sticks and mozzarella, spooky (but nutritious) white chocolate strawberry ghosts, and more! As a mom navigating the sugar avalanche that comes with Halloween, I know the challenges of keeping a...

I'm thrilled to have Sarene Leeds return for part three of our four-part series together. On today's episode we explore various self-care practices to enhance our mental and emotional well-being. We also cover postpartum doulas (aka baby nurses), discussing everything from the importance of hiring a vetted postpartum doula early due to high demand, to the types of support they can provide, like br...

On today's show, we're covering spooktacular family Halloween costumes—because who doesn't love a theme that brings everyone together? I'm sharing creative, budget-friendly costume ideas from classic themes like superheroes and family-favorite characters to pop culture hits like Star Wars and Harry Potter. This episode is all about the importance of simplicity and fun. We explore why dressing up a...

September is National College Savings Month, so today we're talking with financial expert Brad Baldridge about Taming the High Cost of College . We'll cover everything from understanding the stages of college planning to navigating financial aid complexities. Brad shares insights on saving for college, from managing different financial situations to exploring alternative education paths like trade...

This episode dives into the essential topic of Mom Communities (MomsComs) and why finding your tribe can be a game changer. We'll discuss the benefits of having a supportive group of like-minded moms, from reducing anxiety and stress to swapping practical advice and resources. I share my personal journey from feeling isolated to finding my tribe through daycare connections, providing real-life ins...

August is National Breastfeeding Month, so today I'm sharing some of the helpful products and gear I wish I'd known about before my daughter was born. From my favorite nursing bras to the game-changing Haaka , I've got the lowdown on everything to make your breastfeeding journey smoother. Plus, I share three must-try lactation supplements that helped me boost my milk supply. Whether you're a new m...