Take A Mental Load Off

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Shauna & Rachel open up about the often misunderstood topic of self-care, especially in the context of motherhood. Inspired by a group text with Shauna's close friends and neighbors, we dive deep into the guilt that so many women feel when prioritizing their emotional, mental, and physical needs. With personal stories, honest reflecti...

We're Back! Season 2 Kickoff + Life Lately Catch-Up We’re back, friends! After an unplanned (but very needed) break, we’re so excited to be jumping into Season 2. In this catch-up episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of where we’ve been, what’s been going on in our lives, and why hitting pause was actually the healthiest thing we could’ve done—for ourselves, our families, and this podcast....

Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the unexpected power of service—how showing up for others can be grounding, energizing, and deeply fulfilling, even when life feels overwhelming. From hilarious mishaps to heartfelt moments, we share personal stories that highlight why meaningful service starts with observation, connection, and the courage to both give and receive. Timeline Summary: [1:...

Episode Summary: In this episode, Rachel and Shauna talk about a major mindset shift around letting go of the need to "judge" or control everything. Whether it's kids fighting, work stress, or imaginary deadlines we put on ourselves, we explore how stepping back can actually create more peace, connection, and personal growth. We also share real examples from our own lives, including parenting mome...

Today Shauna is sharing a conversation she had with her 9-year-old that helped her explain what the mental load of motherhood really feels like—and how something that seems small can actually be a lot when it’s stacked on top of everything else. From prepping for church to managing her jam-packed family calendar, she opens up about the invisible work that often goes unnoticed and how we’re learnin...

In this episode, we are sharing some of our favorite tools and strategies for building trust, responsibility, and emotional resilience in our kids—without shame or labels. From how Shauna uses her Skylight Calendar to manage chores and rewards, to navigating honesty, sneaky behavior, and those classic “he said, she said” moments, we're getting real about what’s working (and what definitely hasn’t)...

In this episode, Shauna opens up about a recent experience that challenged the way she thinks about grief, emotional capacity, and the constant comparison we all fall into. From a funeral that stirred unexpected emotions to a family trip that left Rachel feeling “less than,” we share how we're learning to validate our feelings and recognize that capacity is personal—and always shifting. If you’ve...

This week, Rachel hit her first hard pass as a mom: playing Pokémon. Yep, she's officially found the one thing her kids are obsessed with that she just cannot get behind—and she's letting herself be okay with that. In this episode, we share why this moment hit deeper than expected and how it’s opened up a conversation about identity, motherhood, and the tricky transition of letting go. ⏱️ Episode...

In this episode, Rachel and Shauna unpack the messy emotions around doing “too much” or “not enough” as a parent. We talk about how guilt and resentment can be helpful signals, explore Erikson’s stages of development, and share how our different parenting values play out in everyday choices. This is one of those honest, back-and-forth chats that’ll have you thinking about your own version of mediu...

Episode Summary: Mom guilt is real, but are we being too hard on ourselves? In this episode, we dive into the tension between sacrifice and self-care, exploring why we feel guilty even when we're spending plenty of time with our kids. We share personal experiences with working motherhood, homeschooling, and shifting seasons of parenting—plus, a reality check on what enough really looks like. Wheth...

IEPs (Individualized Education Plans) can feel overwhelming, but understanding them is crucial for advocating for your child’s education. In this episode, I share my personal experience navigating the IEP system for my son, Eli, and the key lessons I’ve learned along the way. From early intervention to working with (or pushing back on) schools, I’ll break down what every parent needs to know to en...

Episode Summary: Why do we stay up late, even when we’re completely drained? In this episode, we unpack the real reasons behind bedtime procrastination—whether it’s the need for "me time," avoiding emotions, or not aligning with our natural energy cycles. We also explore how rest during your menstrual cycle can improve overall sleep, plus practical ways to reset your nighttime routine. If you’re t...

Episode Summary: Ever notice how kids will do anything to avoid going to sleep? Turns out, we do the same thing—just in different ways. In this episode, we explore why we resist things we know are good for us, from sleep to simple habits like taking vitamins or getting outside. We dive into the emotional roadblocks behind avoidance, how it sneaks into our daily lives, and what we can do to shift o...

Lessons from Loss, Legacy & Self-Care Losing her grandmother and aunt over the past two years has made Rachel reflect on the legacy we leave behind and what she wants her kids to remember about her. So often, we hear about women being praised for their selflessness, but is that really the goal? In this episode, we dive into family stories, breaking generational patterns, and how prioritizing j...

Hey, my little darlings! Today I, Shauna, am bringing you my very first solo episode! With Valentine's Day around the corner, I’m diving into what it means to celebrate when your partner’s unpredictable schedule doesn’t always align with the holiday. In this episode, I share my perspective on flexibility, mindset shifts, and communication strategies that can help make Valentine’s Day—or any holida...

Episode Summary: Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples—it can be a time for self-love, family traditions, and authentic celebration. In this episode, I share my journey with Valentine’s Day, from childhood crushes to navigating it in a marriage where holidays weren’t celebrated, and now, as a mom creating meaningful traditions. Whether you're single, in a complicated relationship, or just looking...

Summary This episode is all about the importance of mentorship—not just for our kids, but for the kids around us. Shauna reflects on lessons from inspiring mentors, like President Sabe. We explore how small, intentional interactions with kids can create lasting impact, and why being present and caring matters more than perfection. Whether it’s building a network of trusted adults for your children...

Episode Summary: In this lively episode, we dive into Shauna’s story as the youngest of six siblings with a larger-than-life personality. From hilarious childhood moments and sibling dynamics to her lifelong dream of motherhood, Shauna reflects on how these experiences shaped her. She also shares how her bond with nieces and nephews guided her parenting philosophy and led to the discovery of her c...

Building Immunity and Letting Go of Sick Season Stress In this episode, we share practical tips for navigating sick days with your kids, along with why our kids getting sick is not a failure. Whether you're dealing with runny noses or unexpected tantrums, this conversation will help you approach sick days with confidence and calm.   Timeline Summary [2:18] – Why getting sick is essential for build...

Summary: Do you ever find yourself caught between anxiety and intuition? In this episode, we share about trusting the universe/God and recognizing the difference between panic-driven thoughts and genuine prompts to act. Through personal stories and real-life moments, we explore how to let go of unnecessary worry, embrace intuition, and find peace in knowing things will work out as they’re meant to...

Happy New Year Friends!   Enjoy highlights from TWO of our top listened to episodes!    Happy New Year and thank you for being a part of the 'Take A Mental Load Off' family. We love this community we are building together. 

Episode Summary: This week, we’re taking a step back from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season with a lighthearted and relatable Medium Club Christmas episode! Let’s face it: the holidays are a lot—on top of our already full plates. In this short but sweet episode, I’m bringing a mix of humor, validation, and a fun “Never Have I Ever” holiday edition game to remind us that it’s okay to embr...

Episode Summary In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that every woman needs to hear: how resting during your period can transform your energy and mental clarity—not just for the day, but for your entire cycle. I share practical strategies to help you prioritize rest, reduce burnout, and find balance during the busiest times of the year. Learn how simple shifts during your period can build momen...

Summary: In this episode, we dive into the art of navigating uncomfortable conversations with grace and intention. Whether it’s setting boundaries at family dinners, addressing unsolicited advice, or handling tricky workplace dynamics, we explore strategies to maintain your peace while advocating for yourself. From lighthearted comebacks to serious boundary-setting techniques, we share actionable...

🎄 Episode Summary: Feeling the holiday pressure to do it all? This episode flips the script on what “doing your best” really means. Welcome to the Medium Club—a radical approach to scaling back while still creating meaningful holiday memories. From mismatched wrapping paper to skipping stressful traditions, we’re breaking down how to protect your peace, set boundaries, and embrace a season that’s...