The Timms Take

In this episode, Matt and Rachel talk about the mental toll of parenting including challenges at bed time, interrupted dinners, repeated songs, impossible-to-decode instructions and much more. Much, much more.  Got ways to help our mental fortitude? Email us at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: Episode 67: The Physical Toll of Toddlers Nowhere To Go But Up & Can You Imagine That...

In this episode, Rachel and Matt discuss the concept of the "default parent", where they've seen it in their own parenting, whether the term is helpful at all, and how they have (mostly) avoided this type of resentment. Plus, some Other Stuff that includes a cry for help from Rachel about lunch. Seriously, what do you eat for lunch?! Email Rachel at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in...

In this episode, Rachel and Matt talk about the struggles of short-term family sickness including bad nights of sleep, the "quick kid recovery", germ overload and much more. Have a story? Want to share a comment? Email us at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: Photo of Oliver as Miguel from Coco ABLE Clothing (and their 360 Club )

In this episode, Rachel and Matt talk about what it's like to have time away from Oliver, how normal that feels, and the swirl of feelings and cultural expectations that  around that. They also explore the positive side of "time away" that opens up a part of them that isn't just a parent. Oh, and they bring up some Other Stuff, of course. Want to join the conversation? Email us...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss this quote: "Was this parenthood? That every second of joy would be atomically split with fear?" They talk about their own different experiences of wrestling with fear, anxiety and mortality in the context of parenthood and marvel at just how different two people can be. We would love your feedback. Let us know your experience of joy and fear by e...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the experience of Oliver preferring a particular parent, their feelings about this (and the relief of not always being the "chosen one"), how age plays a role and whether this is something to indulge or not. We loved hearing from Marco on parental pride. If you want to chime into the conversation, reach out at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in thi...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the fascinating phenomenon of parental pride - where does it come from, what about it is natural, and when does it become unhealthy? They also discuss some postures that can offer a different way of appreciating kids. You might not miss us, but we miss you. If you want to chime into the conversation, reach out at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episo...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the physical toll of toddlers on their parents, both the obvious ("collateral damage of play") and the more subtle. Plus some fun other stuff. Have other physical tolls we didn't mention? Let us know at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: A study on parental sleep (or lack thereof): "Long-term effects of pregnancy and childbi...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel come fresh off an argument to talk about the bests and worsts of vacations with a toddler including the extra travel time, afternoon siestas, and just how close Matt's vacation rhythm is to that of a toddler. What are your bests and worsts of vacations? Let us know at timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: "Seventeen Hip Pack" aka Rachel&apo...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel share about a recent pool incident where neither of them wanted to be there and how we might think about doing things we don't want to for/with our kids. It quickly shifts and expands to a conversation about our expectations. And as always, we welcome your feedback and thoughts - just drop a note to timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: Bluey : Helic...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel give an update on the state of the pod and take turns sharing defining characteristics of Oliver at the burgeoning age of 2. Enjoy! And as always, we welcome your feedback and thoughts - just drop a note to timmstake@gmail.com. Mentioned in this episode: The Karissa-recommended book: How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen by Joanna Faber & Julie King "The...

Matt and Rachel are on vacation this week but for a few brief minutes they're joined by the one who makes the podcast possible - Oliver! And then he leaves. Anyway, we'll be back in a week with a normal episode, a recap of some travel, and some reflections on being a parent of a 2-year-old. Plus, we'll talk about the state of the podcast. Want to weigh in about whether we should con...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss what it means to be happy as a parent (and whether it's possible!).  Prompted by recent ups and downs (including an Oliver/Matt meltdown), it's we enjoyed the conversation! Plus, we end the episode with some favorite books in the segment "Quiet Play Companions." Mentioned in this episode: Paul Bloom, "What Becoming a Parent Really D...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel share a host of parenting peeves. They've refrained from unburdening themselves to date but it comes tumbling out now! Here them go on (and on) about sippy cups, eating out with toddlers, and more.  Plus, I'm Not Just a Parent. Mentioned in this episode: The Popcast with Knox and Jamie: The More You Know - Fixing Zac Efron and Parenting Snake Draft Notion...

For the first time, it's Matt only. If you want to skip this one, we understand. He just tells you that we're delaying our episode a week because we're busy and asks you to send any good parenting resources to timmstake@gmail.com

You can give to the Timms Take GreenHouse Fundraiser here . In this episode, Matt and Rachel share a couple of wonderful letters, explore the topics of hidden and competing goals in parenting and then give an update on Oliver's language in a segment called "Key Plays." It's a packed episode! Mentioned in this episode: Donate to the GreenHouse any time of year here How to Talk S...

You can give to the Timms Take GreenHouse Fundraiser here .  In this special episode, Matt and Rachel talk with Rena Crocker, the Executive Director of the GreenHouse about parenting, introducing and practicing faith with your kids and the wonderful work being done at the GreenHouse. Plus, an invitation to "pay it forward" with a Timms Take fundraiser (see link above). Mentioned in this...

In this episode Matt and Rachel discuss Matt's war against pollen and heat, the tenets of gentle parenting and what it means to have firm boundaries with a budding toddler! Plus a new segment: Quiet Play Companions. Mentioned in this episode: “The Harsh Realm of 'Gentle Parenting'” by Jessica Winter The Ezra Klein Show: " Relationships Are Hard. This Unusual Parenting Theory Ca...

In this episode Matt and Rachel discuss how they've changed in light of becoming parents, plus Rachel brings a groundbreaking entry in the "Field Guide for Parents." Mentioned in this episode: "If You Literally Feel Like a New Person After Having Your Baby, Here's Why" by Ambrosia Brady No Cure for Being Human by Kate Bowler Coffee & Crumbs Podcast: Gamechangers T...

Matt and Rachel talk about a recent study on preschool education and spin off into a conversation about the deep tensions between wanting what's best for your child and wanting to contribute to a more equitable and just world. Plus, the return of Smooch, Marry, Kill. Mentioned in this episode: William Martin's "Do Not Ask Your Children to Strive"  "A Top Researcher Says It...

Matt and Rachel talk about Oliver as the quintessential toddler and what it looks like to not determine parenting based on future outcomes. Plus a new segment, "What's On After 7?" Mentioned in this episode: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman Formula One: Drive to Survive S3E9: "Man on Fire " The Rescue

Matt and Rachel talk about narrating the hard things of life as they discuss an essay by Abby Perry (see link below). Plus a mailbag from listener of the show, Andrei.  Mentioned in this episode: " Parenting as Narrating " by Abby Perry "When I'm Older" featuring an overly optimistic Olaf

Matt and Rachel talk about uncertainty, the significance of modeling and things in their life they would like to "Smooch, Marry, and Kill." Mentioned in this episode: Bluey: Copycat Smooch, Marry, Kill segment comes with a big tip of the hat to the Popcast with Knox and Jamie Eddie Bauer Ladies Lounger Jogger The Gilded Cage by Lynette Noni Doritos Cheesy Gordita Crunch (substitute potat...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel give a series of updates: about the podcast, about Matt's retreat, and about Oliver's recent sleep adventures. As we embark on a new season of the podcast, we're looking for new segment ideas. Send some over to us at timmstake@gmail.com! Mentioned in this episode: The Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux (where Matt went for retreat) Instagram: @taking...

In this episode, Matt and Rachel confess that in the Christmas merriment (and chaos) they forgot to podcast. And so here they are saying hi, sorry, and we'll see you in the new year! Want to convince Rachel to keep podcasting? Reach out to timmstake@gmail.com!