Moms in Real Life

In This Episode, We Talk About: What neurofeedback is and how it can help you understand your little ones better. Alternative answers for parents your kids might need. Keeping a cool head to get out of sticky situations.   Resources + Links: Connect with Dianne @symmetryneuropt Call SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training | 1-844-BRAINON   Learn more at https://symmetryneuropt.com/   The Master and His Emissary by Iain McGilchrist   The Memoirs of Cleopatra by Margaret George   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: Have you ever wanted to know what’s going on inside your little one’s head? This is your chance! Today’s special guest is Dianne Kosto, a mom on a mission! She is the founder and CEO of SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training, an alternative program helping to empower people through better brain regulation and understanding. Dianne shares her experiences with her youngest’s behavioral issues growing up, and how she took the first step to finding a better answer. Then, we get to hear her mom story about the time she received an emergency call about her son getting into a sticky situation at preschool. As moms, we just want what’s best for our little ones. Discover how you can help your kid thrive the way they’re meant to! 00:00 Welcome to the show, Dianne Kosto, mom of two and the founder & CEO of SYMMETRY Neuro-Pathway Training! 01:25 What is life like on the East Coast? 04:20 What did your youngest’s behavioral issues teach you? 09:40 What is neurofeedback? 11:50 What led you to starting your business? 13:40 The first step to finding the answer. 16:45 What are the benefits of starting neurofeedback training young? 18:25 Therapy then versus now. 21:25 What are the other options we can take as parents? 23:40 What is your family eating this week? 26:20 Fun foods for the summer. 27:55 What is something you’ve loving right now? 29:30 How can you make learning math more engaging? 30:40 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 34:35 How do you drink your coffee? 36:30 What was the emergency at your son’s preschool? 38:15 How did you keep your cool under a stressful situation? 40:40 How often do kids get stuck in things?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Tips for keeping date night exciting. What to do in the summer to escape the heat. How to have more fun as a whole family.   Resources + Links: Connect with Camille on Instagram | @fridaywereinlove   Welcome to Camp Mom! | https://fridaywereinlove.com/camp-mom/   12 Rules for Life by Jordan B. Peterson   Spare by Prince Harry   The Kingdom of Wrenly by Jordan Quinn   Dog Man by Dav Pilkey   Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah   Home Front by Kristin Hannah   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: How do you turn family life into fun life? Joining us today is Camille Whiting, the owner of the blog & Instagram Friday We’re in Love! She’ll share fun date night tips and family activity ideas to make life more exciting for the whole family. With summer right around the corner, we’ll also chat about things to do during the summertime to escape the heat. Then, we’ll learn how Camille’s trip to the San Diego Zoo ended in disappointment – and how she accidentally made things worse. Grab your pen and paper as we share fresh ideas that’ll never leave you or your kids bored again. Bring back the fun and enjoy motherhood to the fullest! 00:00 Find the fun in life with the owner of Friday We’re in Love, Camille Whiting! 03:00 What are some tips for date nights? 05:40 How did your blog come about? 07:20 How did your Instagram evolve into family content? 10:55 What is a fun date idea? 11:50 What is your family eating this week? 13:40 Trader Joe’s pickle dogs. 15:10 What is something you’ve been loving recently? 18:00 Hacks for kitchen dish towels. 20:05 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 22:15 How do you get your kids to listen to audiobooks? 25:05 What is next on your reading list? 28:15 How was the Boston Marathon bombing documentary? 31:10 What is a fun thing you love to do with the family? 36:25 How do you get your kids involved in family adventures? 38:35 Camille’s postpartum trip to the San Diego Zoo. 40:25 How did your trip to the zoo end in tears? 45:30 How do kids look at life?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Cooking & nutrition for your family. Moms hacks to stay on top of everything. When birthday parties don’t go as planned.   Resources + Links: Connect with Kristen on Instagram | @kristen.carli Learn more at https://www.camelbacknutritionwellness.com/   Check out The Second Shift Podcast on Apple!   Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah   Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah   Home Front by Kristin Hannah   The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah   The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah   Check out the Didn’t I Just Feed You Podcast   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: The only thing predictable about motherhood is how unpredictable it really is! In this episode, we have Kristen Carli, a dietician, fellow podcaster, and mom of a one year old little boy! We’ll be talking about the world of food & nutrition, cooking for your family, and planning birthday parties for your kids. As we go, we also share our favorite game-changing products and mom hacks this week for the busy mom trying to stay on top. Finally, we’ll listen to Kristen’s story about the time her son’s first birthday party didn’t go exactly as planned. Tune in to find out how to roll with the punches, even when things don’t go as expected! 00:00 Meet Kristen Carli, a podcaster, dietician, and mom of a one year old! 02:25 How did you start your podcast? 06:40 What is your family eating this week? 11:50 Cooking with a one year old. 14:55 What is the best Asian dessert place in the valley? 18:35 Where do you go for good pho? 20:30 What are your favorite summertime foods? 21:50 What is something you’re loving right now? 27:25 The tangle-free, kink-free hose. 30:30 What are you reading, watching, or listening to this week? 32:55 The Kristin Hannah reading list. 35:15 What is your favorite mom hack? 37:05 Where do you keep your swimsuits? 38:30 What went wrong at your son’s first birthday party? 40:55 Planning birthday parties.

In This Episode, We Talk About: What it’s like raising older kids. Teaching your kids (and yourself) hard lessons. The pros and cons of cell phones.   Resources + Links:   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   Verity by Colleen Hoover   Have a Little Faith by Mitch Albom   The Maid by Nita Prose   Home Front by Kristin Hannah   Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: It’s time to talk about the natural enemy of parents everywhere: the cell phone! This episode’s mom friend is Brandi Orozco, a Phoenix transplant and mom of two older children! We’ll talk about what it’s like parenting older kids and preparing for an empty nest. Then, we’ll share our favorite things this week, including TikTok recipe hacks, budget-friendly style tips, and the best shows to binge watch. Finally, Brandi tells her mom story about the time an argument over Snapchat led to her smashing her daughter’s cell phone on the curb! Join in for more moments that drive all moms up the wall! 00:00 Get a glimpse into life with older children with Brandi Orozco, a mom of two mini adults! 01:35 What is it like having two older kids as a younger parent? 04:00 How do you deal with your kids’ significant others? 07:10 Do parents know everything? 09:10 What is your family eating this week? 14:00 Stephanie’s protein cookie dough bites. 15:35 What is something you’ve been loving recently? 19:05 The pressure of designer brands. 22:00 How can you find cute styles at cheap prices? 25:50 What are you reading, watching, or listening to this week? 27:45 Why is it so easy to binge watch? 31:30 What made you smash your daughter’s phone? 35:40 Who learned a lesson that day? 37:30 Why did Stephanie get her daughter a phone? 40:30 What are the effects of social media on mental health? 44:20 What is it about phones that drive parents crazy?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Little kiddos with strong personalities. Being more than just a mom. Finding your own way to motherhood.   Resources + Links:   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   The Maid by Nita Prose   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: You’re more than just a mom! This week, we’re joined by Emily Longwell-Grice, an OT currently pursuing her PhD for occupational therapy as she raises her four year old son! Together, we’ll take a look at the many sacrifices we sometimes have to make as moms, professionals, and as human beings. We’ll talk about raising littles with big personalities, crime shows & celebrity autobiographies, doing more things as a family for summer vacation, and more. Finally, Emily shares her story about the time she chose other kids over her own and the reasons why she did it. Tune in for a unique perspective of motherhood that proves there’s no right or wrong way to be a mom! 00:00 End of school news & updates! 02:00 Introducing former Modern Milker, Emily Longwell-Grice, an occupational therapist by trade currently pursuing her PhD for occupational therapy! 05:40 Where was your favorite place to live and why? 08:40 What is your family eating this week? 11:30 Feeding littles with big personalities. 14:05 What are the pros and cons of chia seeds? 18:00 What is one thing you’re loving right now? 22:55 What has Stephanie been making with her Vitamix blender? 24:45 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 29:30 Physical versus audio books. 32:30 What is the best way to read autobiographies? 35:30 What is something fun you like to do as a family? 38:15 How did Stephanie’s time at the roller rink go? 41:45 Why did a week-long summer camp cause contention after you gave birth? 45:20 Are we more than just moms? 48:30 Finding your own way to be a mother.  

In This Episode, We Talk About: Meal planning and easy recipes. Appreciating all the stages in life. Tricking your naughty little ones.   Resources + Links: Connect with Angie on Instagram | @angiealles   Learn more at girlgangwellness.com   Download your copy of the Six Weeks to Success Cookbook and use code MOMS10 to save $10! | https://auspicious-sky-740.myflodesk.com/   The 30-Day Husband Encouragement Challenge by Leslie Bennett   Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry   The Maid by Nita Prose   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: When your naughty little ones act up, what should you do? Today’s mom friend is Angie Alles, wife, business owner, and mom of identical twin boys! Along with Gina Wynn, Angie runs Girl Gang Wellness to help busy moms get back to enjoying life and feeling confident. In this episode, we’ll share our meal planning for the week as well as go over some easy recipes your family will enjoy. Angie also gives her advice on surviving the middle school years and appreciating all the stages as they come. Then, we’ll hear about the time Angie’s four year old twin boys refused to go to the grocery store, and how she used some quick thinking and a non-existent YMCA membership to call their bluff. Join us for a reminiscing episode all about motherhood and the shenanigans it entails! 00:00 Meet the busy mom of identical twin boys, Angie Alles of Girl Gang Wellness! 04:40 Do your boys get along? 06:25 How do you survive the middle school years? 07:40 What is your family eating this week? 09:55 Easy breakfast smoothie recipes. 13:20 What is something you’re loving right now? 16:00 What product can you not live without? 17:30 Why does Stephanie love her Birkenstocks? 20:20 What have you been reading, watching, or listening to? 25:15 What sports does your family enjoy? 27:10 Tips for reading for enjoyment. 29:40 What is your favorite mom hack? 31:05 The pros and cons of grocery delivery. 33:00 What did you do when your boys refused to go to the store? 35:30 What happened in the YMCA parking lot? 38:45 How can you trick your naughty littles?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Transitioning from one to three as a busy mom. Game changing tips for your electronics. How to have fun as a whole family unit.   Resources + Links:   Check out Mark Hyman’s recipes for healthy eating | https://drhyman.com/blog/category/recipes/   His Needs, Her Needs by Willard F. Harley Jr.   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: Everything good comes in threes! Today we’re welcoming a fellow listener of the podcast, Karinne Davis, a high school math teacher and the mother of 3 under 3! This week, we’ll talk helpful support systems, healthy recipes for cleaner eating, and fun sports events for the whole family. We also get a glimpse into the life of a high school teacher, including game changing hacks for electronics in the classroom and connecting with students. Then, Karinne tells us about the time she became a mom of 3 under 3 and shares her tips & advice on how to adapt to taking care of not one, not two, but three littles! Join us for an episode full of thrice the amount of fun! 00:00 Say hello to Karinne Davis, a listener of the podcast and a mom of 3 under 3! 03:25 What does your support system look like? 05:55 How do your students react to you and your husband working at the same school? 08:05 What is your family eating this week? 12:05 What do you feed your twin girls? 14:40 What do you and your husband eat? 16:45 Stephanie’s healthy soup recipe. 21:20 What is the issue with crockpot recipes? 23:15 What is something you’ve been loving lately? 25:50 Electronic game changers. 29:35 How do you get phones away from your students?  32:30 What are you reaching, watching, or listening to? 35:55 How do you find music to listen to? 38:30 What is something fun your family likes to do together? 40:50 How can you make sports more fun for the family? 43:40 Transitioning from 1 to 3. 46:45 How do you divide your time between 3 littles?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Incorporating health & fitness into your busy schedule. The good, the bad, and the ugly of the high school years. The mortifying things teachers see and hear at school.   Resources + Links: Connect with Gina on Instagram | @whitegrapesandinshape   Learn to look and feel your best at https://girlgangwellness.com/!   Get $10 OFF Gina’s digital cookbook Six Weeks to Success with code: MOMS10   Check out The Foodtrainers Podcast   Love Her Well by Kari Kampakis   IT’S ALL GOOD by Gwenyth Paltrow and Julia Turshen   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: Why should you always separate your delicates from your blankets? One mom learned her lesson the hard way! Joining us today is Gina Wynn, the owner of a digital health & fitness business that coaches busy moms to look and feel their best while having a healthy mindset! As the mother of two teenage girls, Gina has learned how to balance health, business, and family over the years. We’ll talk about how busy moms just like you can incorporate more health & fitness into your busy schedule, the pros and cons of the high school years, and healthy boundaries for your kids’ electronics. Then, we get to hear about the mortifying experience from when Gina’s thong accidentally turned up at her daughter’s preschool. So sit back, relax, and get ready to laugh while we air out some dirty laundry! 01:00 What new sport should Stephanie’s family learn together? 02:10 Meet Gina Wynn, the owner of a digital health & fitness business that coaches busy moms to look and feel their best while having a healthy mindset! 05:35 How can a busy mom incorporate health & fitness into their lives? 08:00 High school years: The good, the bad, and the ugly. 12:15 What is your family eating this week? 17:50 What supplements have Stephanie been taking? 22:00 How has your family been sleeping? 24:20 What are your phone and social media rules? 28:15 How is Stephanie’s family sleeping without competitive softball? 30:15 What is something you’re loving right now? 33:10 How to drink your morning coffee without breaking your intermittent fast. 35:35 Why do we love the new outdoor Ruggable rugs? 39:20 What are you reading, watching, or listening to this week? 42:15 What is the downside of watching apocalypse TV shows like The Last of Us? 43:45 What health & fitness podcast do you love to listen to? 45:15 Stephanie’s go-to cookbook & TV show this week. 49:00 What surprise was accidentally attached to your daughter’s blanket at preschool? 52:35 What crazy things do teachers see and hear at school?  

In This Episode, We Talk About: Chaotic labor & delivery stories. Raising multiple kids in different age ranges. How Samantha nearly delivered her third baby on a bridge.   Resources + Links: Connect with Sam on Instagram | @thefreedomparents Learn more at https://www.thefreedomparents.com/ Tune into The Freedom Parents Podcast   It Didn’t Start with You by Mark Wolynn   Young Forever by Mark Hyman   Check out The Mel Robbins Podcast   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our website https://www.modernmilk.com/ Show Notes: Buckle up, mom friends, because you’re in for a bumpy ride! Joining us in this episode is Samantha Prestenbach, an online health & business coach, co-host of The Freedom Parents podcast, and mother of four (with one more on the way)! We have a fun-filled hour together as we discuss what it’s like raising multiple kids of different ages, what you’re missing in your insurance, how to take better care of your health, and even more. Then, Sam shares the hectic childbirth story of her third baby that features an MIA midwife, a 24 mile long bridge, and plenty of bumps in the road! No one ever said the road to motherhood was easy! 01:00 What new changes have happened in the past week? 03:40 Give a warm welcome to Samantha Prestenbach, health & business coach, co-host of The Freedom Parents podcast, and mother of four (with one on the way)! 06:05 What does it mean to be a Freedom Parent? 08:10 Raising four kids in different age ranges. 11:15 What brought you to Arizona? 15:00 What is your family eating this week? 17:35 Our love-hate relationship with DoorDash. 22:25 How is your family sleeping? 24:55 Sleepovers at Stephanie’s. 27:45 What is one thing you’ve been loving? 32:15 What you need to know about your insurance. 35:30 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 39:10 Why did you have to check your relationship with TV? 41:50 How to take better care of yourself through functional medicine. 45:00 What made you want a natural childbirth for your third? 47:50 What did you do when you realized you were in labor? 51:20 What happened when you got on the bridge? 53:55 How did your childbirth go at the hospital? 56:30 Experiences from a labor & delivery nurse.  

In This Episode, We Talk About: The best way to get deals at Target every season. Finding your own personal mom style. The panic of getting locked outside your house in the middle of winter.   Resources + Links: Connect with Ashley on Instagram | @ashleyallenfit Anxious People by Fredrik Backman   Find your Mom Style! | @sistersguidetostyle   Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra   https://www.wearpepper.com/   ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Send us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/   Show Notes: What would you do if you were accidentally locked outside your house in 30 degree weather? This week, we have Ashley Allen, a personal trainer, Modern Milk veteran, and mom of two little ones! Ashley helps moms show up just like you show up everyday, and now she’s showing up here to share her wild story of getting locked out of her house in the middle of winter! We have a fun, unfiltered conversation full of our favorite things and weekly updates, as well tips for getting the best Target deals, finding your mom style, and sleeping training your 1 year old. Finally, we’ll dive into the panic, chaos, and hilarity of the time Ashley got locked outside with her youngest in plain view. Join us for a shocking mom story where you won’t believe what happens next! 01:05 Meet today’s guest, Ashley Allen, a personal trainer, Modern Milk veteran, and mom of two little ones! 02:20 How did you create memories for your daughter’s birthday? 05:10 How does your business help moms show up? 07:30 What is your family eating this week? 09:35 As a fitness professional, how do you fit pasta into your diet? 11:45 The benefits of digestive enzymes. 14:25 What is the biggest downside of cooking fish? 16:10 How is sleep training your youngest going so far? 19:45 What is causing Stephanie’s family to lose sleep? 22:25 How do you get the best deals at Target? 27:20 What are you currently loving? 30:35 How can you find your own mom style? 32:00 Stephanie’s favorite hydrating cleansing balm. 33:20 What are you reading, watching, or listening to this week? 35:15 What was Stephanie’s experience at the emergency vet? 39:20 How can you avoid getting sucked into a new show? 40:40 How did you get locked outside in 30 degree weather? 43:10 What happened after you got locked out? 45:35 What made you shift into panic mode? 48:10 How can you never get locked out again?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Our spring break adventures. Why you should never bring your daughter to your waxing appointment. The price (and pain) of beauty.   Resources + Links:   Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah   The Saints of Swallow Hill by Donna Everhart   Smartless Podcast   Absolutely Not Podcast   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: Get ready for a peek into the lives of the real real housewives! Today, we are joined by Nikki Kirkpatrick, an OG former Modern Milk employee and current stay at home mom of two girls! She’ll tell us the true story of the time she got her butthole ripped off. As we go, we’ll also talk about our spring break stories, what we’re loving this week, and the price of staying beautiful. Then, we’ll learn why you should never bring your five year old daughter to your Brazilian waxing appointment. Tune in for all the hilarious and embarrassing moments of motherhood we love to hear! 01:05 Meet an OG former Modern Milk employee, Nikki Kirkpatrick, now a stay at home mom of two girls! 03:15 What’s the dynamic between your two girls? 04:50 What did you do for spring break? 08:20 How was Stephanie’s Mexico vacation? 13:15 What is your family eating this week? 17:35 What is a quick Costco rice dish? 19:15 How has your family been sleeping recently? 23:35 How can you help regulate unpredictable sleep? 25:10 What are you loving right now? 27:45 Hunting for the perfect bar stool. 30:40 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 33:45 What has Stephanie been listening to in her downtime? 37:45 How was your first Brazilian wax experience? 40:25 Why should you never bring your daughter to your waxing? 44:35 Who is all this upkeep for?  

In This Episode, We Talk About: How the passing of her mom helped to shape Erica’s own motherhood experience. Erica and Stephanie’s wild college days. The messiness, the overwhelm, and the joy of being a mom.   Resources + Links:   The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes   The Saints of Swallow Hill by Donna Everhart   https://minimalistbaker.com/   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: What makes being a mom special? This week’s featured guest is Erica Peterson, Stephanie’s close friend since high school, a physical therapist, and mother of two little boys! Erica will share her motherhood experience and how it was impacted early on by her mom’s passing. Together, we’ll chat about the joys of being a mom and what it makes it all worth it in the end. As we go, we’ll dive into our crazy college stories, the overwhelm of being the mom magnet, our favorite things this week, and more. Tune in for a fresh perspective of motherhood that’ll help get you through the difficult moments that come with being a mom in real life! 01:10 Meet Erica Peterson, Stephanie’s close friend since high school, a physical therapist, and mother of two little boys! 04:30 Why do we miss the mall? 07:05 What is your family eating this week? 10:20 What are our breakfast go-tos?  13:30 How do you get your picky littles to eat? 16:30 How is your family sleeping lately? 18:55 What surprised Stephanie about her dogs’ DNA? 22:25 The overwhelm of being the mom magnet. 27:35 What is something you’re loving right now? 30:45 What is your favorite athleisure brand? 34:30 How is Stephanie’s new waffle maker? 36:55 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 39:55 What does Stephanie always have on in the background? 42:05 Erica & Stephanie’s crazy college days. 44:40 What message did you hear from your mom in your dream? 47:25 How did your mom’s passing impact your own motherhood? 50:45 What do our dreams tell us? 53:20 Remembering Erica’s mom.  

In This Episode, We Talk About: What’s coming up next in Season 2. Exciting updates and news in our lives. Our favorite things and mom stories.   Resources + Links: Feeding Littles and Beyond by Ali Maffucci   Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry   The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes   Live Wire by Kelly Ripa   Undistracted by Bob Gaff   Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: It’s been a rollercoaster of a season, so strap in and get ready for what’s coming next, mom friends! Today, Stephanie and Katie have some big news to share about the future of Moms in Real Life! What can you expect from Season 2 moving on? Before that, we’ll go over recent updates in our lives, our favorite things this week, and our very own mom stories we’ve never shared before. You’ll laugh, you’ll gasp, and you might even say goodbye. Join us for the exciting final episode of Season 1! 01:10 What are we talking about this week? 02:10 What has your family been eating recently? 04:30 Do your kids eat veggies or salad? 07:20 What do you feed your littles? 10:25 How have our families been sleeping lately? 12:15 What do you give your kids when they’re throwing up? 14:20 What is an IPL facial? 19:50 Katie’s favorite facial toner for smooth skin. 21:30 What is a gentle, clean soap? 25:20 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 28:30 What is Katie’s movie room being used for? 31:15 What did Stephanie find with a blacklight after a sleepover? 36:00 Is it better to know or not know? 39:00 What is Katie’s big news? 43:50 How have you been feeling? 46:35 What is coming up next in Season 2?  

In this episode, we’re looking back at some of our favorite mom stories early in our journey here on the podcast! We’re so grateful for all the moms that have joined us as guests and as listeners this past year, and we can’t wait to dive in to SEASON TWO!   Listen to the full episodes of each of these highlighted guests: Episode 8: The Time When Jill Ran Over Her Son on Her Bike in Front of the School Drop-Off Line Episode 14: The Time When Michelle Called the Cops on her 3-year Old Episode 25: The Time Marisa Made a Mom Friend When she Needed it Most Resources + Links: Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com  

In This Episode, We Talk About: How perfectionism affects us as moms. Ways Madison has navigated the different birth and newborn experiences with each of her kids. Resources + Links:   Connect with Madison @mother.figure   Check out this episode mentioned in the episode: Natasha’s Kitchen - One Pan Chicken and Vegetables House of Noa Kitchen Mats Hello Bello Diapers Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: Do you struggle with perfectionism? In this episode, we’re joined by soon-to-be mom of 3, and founder of Mother Figure, Madison Pinebird! Not only is she in the exciting stage of welcoming their third baby, but Madison is also diving more into cooking! Feel free to shoot us a group DM with your favorite crock pot recipe! We chat about night training, how religion and faith changes impact how you see your roles, and the impact of perfectionism on motherhood regardless of whether your babies are easy or hard. Listen in for our favorites, and the reminder that you don’t have to do it all!    03:00 Meet soon-to-be mom of 3 and founder of Mother Figure, Madison Pinebird! 04:40 What is your family eating right now? 10:30 A family favorite one pan chicken recipe! 14:15 How is your family sleeping right now? 19:00 Night training and things to help kids stay dry through the night. 22:00 What are you loving right now? 27:15 The Kitchen mat Stephanie is loving right now! 32:00 Switching to a more affordable clean diaper brand. 33:15 What are you reading, watching, and listening to right now? 39:00 Watching Jinger Duggar Vuolo disentangling her faith. 42:20 The time Madison thought she had motherhood figured out. 48:00 How does social media pressure moms to be perfect? 55:15 Working through the shame of asking for help as a mom.  

In This Episode, We Talk About: The pros and cons of “gentle parenting”. Parenting then versus now. Setting smart boundaries as a parent.   Resources + Links:   Fairy Tale by Stephen King   Salem’s Lot by Stephen King   Carrie by Stephen King   The Shining by Stephen King   Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell   The Assassin’s Blade by Sarah J. Maas   Spare by Prince Harry   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: For our 1 year anniversary episode, we’ve got a special guest with a story a lot of moms will be able to relate to! Joining us is optometrist and full-time mom of two daughters, Alison Kitzerow! Together, we’ll chat about how to keep it healthy without losing the fun, the struggles of buying new furniture online, hacks for wetting the bed, among even more. Then, Alison tells us about the time she threw “gentle parenting” out the window during a trip to Whole Foods gone wrong. What are the limits of gentle parenting, and when will it just not cut it? No one ever said being a mom in real life would be easy… or perfect! So let’s take a moment to visit all the little moments that make us laugh, cry, and drive us completely up the wall! 0:01:20 Are we loving or hating Valentine’s Day this year? 0:04:10 Say hello to today’s special guest, Alison Kitzerow, an optometrist and full-time mom of two littles! 0:06:20 What is it like working with the elderly? 0:09:30 What’s in a name? 0:11:40 When did you name your kids? 0:13:15 Who splits the mental load in your house? 0:15:50 What is your family eating this week? 0:20:25 How can you use Blue Apron to introduce more foods to your kids? 0:22:10 Quick, easy, and healthy breakfast options. 0:25:55 How has your family been sleeping recently? 0:29:30 What is the right amount of sleep? 0:31:15 Hacks for wetting the bed. 0:32:55 Why is Stephanie’s family not getting any sleep this week? 0:35:00 What are you loving right now? 0:39:00 What new bar stools does Katie love? 0:40:05 The struggle of buying furniture online. 0:44:30 How is Stephanie’s new sofa? 0:47:20 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 0:51:00 How does blue light affect us and how can we combat it? 0:54:20 Why was Stephanie cracking up in her car? 0:56:15 When did you realize “gentle parenting” wasn’t going to cut it? 1:00:35 What are the limits of gentle parenting? 1:03:40 Parenting then versus now. 1:07:45 How do your parents react to your parenting?  

In This Episode, We Talk About: How to organize and get more done in your day. Shocking gender reveals and the aftermath. Taking an honest look at dealing with disappointment.   Resources + Links: It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover   Verity by Colleen Hoover   Cook Once, Eat All Week by Cassy Joy Garcia   Throne of Glass Series by Sarah J. Maas   A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: Mom life is always full of the unexpected, from beginning to end! Joining us this week is Candace Gorgen, an Arizona native climbing the corporate ladder at Lululemon while she runs her passion project, I Organize You! Candace is now a mother to three beautiful boys, but today she’s sharing her story of the gender reveal she was not anticipating at all. As we go, we’ll discuss organization tips that’ll help you get more done in your day, as well as moms hacks for getting more stains out of clothes and more green in your kids’ diets. We chat about Apple Watches, curly hair struggles, finding more downtime for yourself, and much more! Then, we’ll learn about Candace’s shocking gender reveal to take an honest look at how broken expectations can leave their mark. Let this heartfelt episode serve as your reminder that, no matter the struggle, you’re never alone in motherhood! 0:01:15 How is February going so far? 0:04:25 Meet the mom friend balancing three little ones, Candace Gorgen, the organization and space founder of I Organize You! 0:06:15 How is life balancing three? 0:09:35 What is one good universal organization tip? 0:11:55 How do you organize and donate kids’ clothes? 0:14:35 How can you get more tasks done? 0:18:10 What is your family eating right now? 0:23:05 Our favorite Trader Joe’s yellow curry recipes. 0:24:45 Where do you get your chicken (without breaking the bank)? 0:27:00 What is a quick and easy lunch? 0:29:10 How is your family sleeping this week? 0:31:05 What is stopping Stephanie from getting 7 hours of sleep? 0:32:40 Why do we wear Apple Watches? 0:36:05 What funny thing happened to Katie during the middle of the night? 0:37:55 What are you loving right now? 0:38:30 What new home lock did Stephanie install? 0:39:45 How can you retrain your hair to be curly? 0:43:20 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 0:46:10 How to meal prep for the whole week. 0:50:40 How do you find more downtime? 0:53:50 What is a good mom hack? 0:56:05 How can you get more greens in your kids’ diet? 0:58:20 How did your last gender reveal go? 1:01:50 What was so shocking about the reveal? 1:04:00 How did you find community and support afterwards? 1:06:55 How does a surprising gender reveal affect us as moms? 1:10:00 How did your husband react? 1:11:40 What happened after you shared the video?  

In This Episode, We Talk About: Giving control over and advocating for your kids. Turning negative experiences into positive ones. Finding hope through the doom and gloom.   Resources + Links: Connect with Alison | alisonbrier@speechologyaz.com   Peter and the Starcatchers Series by Dave Barry   A Court of Thorns and Roses Series by Sarah J. Maas   Crescent City Series by Sarah J. Maas   Spare by Prince Harry   Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: As parents, what difficult decisions do we have to make for our kids? Today, our guest is Alison Breier, a speech therapist who specializes in sound disorder and the ultimate advocate for her two sons! She’ll speak on the hardships, tough decisions, and scary moments after her youngest was born with a congenital heart defect. But it’s not all doom and gloom! Together, we’ll talk about how to turn negative experiences into positive ones, why we need to advocate for our kids, and mom hacks that’ll help keep you on top of things. Then, Alison shares the story of her son’s recent major open heart surgery and what the future holds. Join us for all the moments of motherhood, the good and the bad, and find a spark of hope in the darkness! 0:01:20 What has the weather been like recently? 0:04:30 Meet today’s mom friend Alison Breier, a speech pathologist specializing in sound disorder! 0:06:15 What does a day in the life of a speech therapist look like? 0:10:10 Rachel’s speech therapy journey. 0:13:00 Why do you give some control to the kids you work with? 0:15:35 What is your family eating this week? 0:17:55 Why is it nice to have the whole family working and learning from home? 0:19:30 Blue Apron and mac ‘n cheese hacks. 0:22:40 How can you brown meat for easy tacos? 0:24:15 How has everyone been sleeping lately? 0:28:25 What was Katie’s 5AM panic? 0:31:35 How can you help your kids fall asleep? 0:32:50 What are you loving right now? 0:35:35 How can you make acai bowls from home? 0:38:00 What are the best hair products? 0:38:40 What are you reading, watching, or listening to? 0:41:05 How has Katie’s fantasy book series been going? 0:42:15 What has Stephanie been reading and watching? 0:45:30 What is your best mom hack? 0:47:00 How can you put a buffer into negative experiences? 0:52:35 Where should you put your kids’ snacks? 0:53:40 What is a simple laundry hack? 0:54:30 How was your son’s biventricular repair surgery? 0:59:50 What happened after the surgery? 1:02:45 Getting through the doom and gloom.  1:05:35 What did you do after you brought Evan home? 1:08:10 What is your funny camping story? 1:10:05 How is Evan doing now?

In This Episode, We Talk About: Music lessons, word puzzles, Disneyland trips, and more! Accidentally taking your baby to a frat party. How motherhood changes your life.   Resources + Links: Oh Crap! Potty Training by Jamie Glowacki   A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas   Spare by Prince Harry   The Unofficial Disney Parks Cookbook by Ashley Craft   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: You’ve heard of baby’s first steps, now get ready for baby’s first frat party! In this episode, we have Mackenzie Aweida, a stay at home mom of two little boys and a Phoenician transplant! She’ll tell us about the time when she found out she should have left her baby at home! We’ll chat about the beautiful chaos of motherhood, from engaging music lessons for your kids to magical Disneyland trips and everything in between. Then, Mackenzie shares her story of how she learned the #1 rule of parenting: when in doubt, call a babysitter! Find out how this mom in real life accidentally gave her infant a taste of college life early! 01:15 Meet Mackenzie Aweida, stay at home mom of two little boys and Phoenician transplant with a background in design! 05:50 How did your son, Booker, get his name? 08:00 What is your family eating this week? 12:15 How do you feed your picky eaters? 14:55 What new taco recipe did Stephanie try? 18:45 How is your family sleeping right now? 21:20 How is Katie’s new sleep chart and mattress cover so far? 23:55 Getting to sleep early. 24:50 What are you loving right now? 27:45 How do you engage kids in music lessons? 31:30 How can you curl your kids’ hair without heat? 33:25 What are you reading, watching, or listening to this week? 35:30 How is Katie’s fantasy series going? 37:00 What did Stephanie get from her gift exchange? 39:20 How was your Christmas Disneyland trip? 42:00 How did you end up bringing your baby to a house party? 46:55 What happened after you stayed? 51:05 How does motherhood change your perspective?

In This Episode, We Talk About: The unexpected detours in the journey of motherhood. Handling the chaos of having two under two. Finding the balance between business and being a mom.   Resources + Links: Connect with Meg on Instagram | @meg_marie_photo   More Myself by Alicia Keys   Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus   A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas   Spare by Prince Harry   https://www.litcandlesupply.com/   Connect with Moms in Real Life on Instagram | @momsinreallifepodcast   Follow Stephanie and Katie on Instagram! Stephanie Nguyen | @modernmilk Katie Kunz | @kunzandcrew and @newbornlifecoach   WANT TO HAVE YOUR MOM STORY FEATURED ON THE PODCAST? Sent us an email at info@momsinreallife.com   Find out more on our websites https://www.modernmilk.com/ www.katiekunz.com Show Notes: No one ever said the road to motherhood was easy! Today, we are diving into all the unexpected detours that come with being a mom in real life alongside our special guest, Meg McMillan! Meg is a brand photographer, business coach, and mother of two under two. She’ll show us how she handles the chaos to strike the balance between owning a business and being a mom. Along the way, we’ll talk about movie theater misadventures, effective systems for grocery budgeting and meal planning, our favorite new things, and more. Before we get off track, Meg shares her story about the time she accidentally missed her exit on the way to swimming lessons and had to improvise. Join in as we explore motherhood and all the bumps in the road that come with it! 01:15 Getting back into the swing of things. 03:20 Introducing Meg McMillan, brand photographer, business coach, and mother of two boys under two from San Diego! 05:05 How did you get into business coaching? 09:50 What is your family currently eating this week? 11:35 What is a quick and easy way to meal plan? 14:10 Is Instacart membership worth it? 15:55 What are easy pasta recipes for the whole family? 18:30 How can you get your groceries on budget? 20:50 How is your family sleeping right now? 23:00 How did a dog keep Stephanie up during the night? 23:45 How have stickers been helping Katie’s kids sleep in their own beds? 26:25 What are you loving right now? 29:50 How is Stephanie’s new washer and dryer? 32:10 The best scented candles. 34:10 What new rug did Katie get? 37:25 What are you reading, watching, or listening to right now? 40:00 Stephanie’s hilarious horror movie story. 43:05 How was Katie’s kiddos first movie theater experience? 46:45 What made you miss your exit on the freeway? 49:05 What happened once you realized something was wrong? 54:25 What would have happened if you had kept going?