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Girls trips sound magical in the group chat… until someone starts a spreadsheet, another person ghosts the planning thread, and suddenly you’re three emotional support texts away from cancelling the whole thing. In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, Molly and Jillian dive into the very real chaos, comedy, and healing power of taking a girls trip as an adult woman — especially as moms balancing mental load, budgets, schedules, guilt, and everyone else’s expectations. From the emotional labor of being “the planner friend” to navigating different travel styles, financial realities, overstimulation, and the need for actual rest, this conversation is your reminder that girls trips are about so much more than matching airport sweatshirts and blurry cocktail selfies. They’re about reconnecting with yourself, nurturing friendships, and remembering who you are outside of your daily responsibilities. Molly and Jillian also share honest stories about travel stress, communication mishaps, boundaries, mom guilt, and the surprising emotional reset that can happen when women finally give themselves permission to leave survival mode for a few days. Whether you’re planning a weekend cabin getaway with friends, a dream international vacation, or just fantasizing about one while hiding in your bathroom with cold coffee, this episode will make you feel seen. In This Episode We Talk About:  Why planning girls trips as adults feels wildly more complicated than it used to  The hidden emotional labor that falls on the “planner friend”  Managing different budgets, priorities, and travel expectations  How motherhood changes the way women travel  Why clear communication can make or break a trip  Navigating people pleasing, resentment, and overstimulation while traveling  The pressure to “make the most” of every moment  Why rest should be part of the itinerary  Learning to ask for what you need without guilt  The emotional importance of maintaining female friendships  Why girls trips can feel genuinely healing for moms Key Takeaways  Communication is everything. Honest conversations before the trip prevent resentment during the trip.  Not everyone travels the same way — and that’s okay.  You do not need to earn rest by over-performing.  Building downtime into a trip can completely change the experience.  Friendships deserve intentional investment, especially in motherhood.  It’s okay to say no to activities, split up, or take breaks.  A successful girls trip isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection. Keywords girls trip, girls weekend, women’s travel, friendship, motherhood, mom friendships, travel planning, self-care, realistic travel, adult friendship, group travel, mental load, travel stress, mom life, burnout recovery, honest mom talk, women supporting women, vacation planning, travel boundaries, overwhelmed moms Connect With Us Follow Honest Mom Talk for more brutally honest conversations about motherhood, identity, burnout, friendship, relationships, and surviving modern mom life without completely losing yourself in the process. Follow along on Instagram: Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

How do you talk to your kids about the absolute chaos of the world… without spiraling yourself? Cool cool cool. Same question over here. In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, we’re diving into the very real challenge of navigating politics, current events, social issues, and nonstop media noise while raising thoughtful, emotionally safe kids. Because somehow we’re expected to explain complicated world events while simultaneously packing lunches, answering “what’s for dinner,” and pretending we totally have it together. We’re talking about: figuring out what’s actually age-appropriateprotecting your own mental health while staying informedteaching kids critical thinking without fear-based parentingsetting boundaries around media and doom-scrollinghandling hard questions when you don’t even have the answers yourselfand why modeling calm, honest conversations matters more than being “perfect”This is a real, nuanced, mom-to-mom conversation about raising kind, informed humans in a world that feels loud, overwhelming, and honestly… exhausting. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re saying too much, not enough, or somehow messing it all up — this episode is for you. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

Celebrating Mother’s Day as a reflection of what truly matters to you  not just a day filled with societal expectations or overdone brunches. Join Molly and Jillian as they explore how to craft meaningful, guilt-free Mother’s Day rituals that honor your needs, set healthy boundaries, and foster genuine connection. In this episode: The origins and societal influences shaping Mother’s Day celebrationsWhy traditional brunches and over-commercialization miss the pointPractical ways to communicate your needs and set boundariesHow to reclaim your identity outside of motherhood, especially in busy seasonsThe importance of scheduling restorative days for self-careCelebrating the flexibility of being a mompreneur and designing your ideal dayHow to move away from guilt and societal pressure toward authentic joyCreating annual traditions that align with your personal valuesThe role of community, shared experiences, and honest conversationsExploring fun, experiential ideas over material gifts for Mother’s DayThe power of boundaries and self-advocacy for a fulfilling holidayTimestamps: 00:00 - The societal constructs behind Mother’s Day and how to redefine it 02:15 - Rethinking traditional brunches and overdone celebrations 04:25 - Communicating boundaries with family and asserting your needs 08:50 - The benefits of scheduling self-care and restorative days 12:30 - Crafting personalized Mother’s Day traditions aligned with your values 16:07 - Addressing mental health, generational influences, and societal stigmas 20:00 - The importance of community and shared experiences 24:00 - The value of taking intentional time away and generating new ideas 29:00 - Embracing honesty, vulnerability, and managing guilt 32:00 - The significance of cultural influences and societal expectations 37:00 - Summing up key insights: unapologetic self-care and boundary setting 42:00 - The importance of honest communication and celebration on your terms 48:00 - How to advocate for what makes your Mother’s Day special 54:00 - The fun side: travel, experiences, and creating joyful memories 62:00 - Debunking myths about materialism and embracing authentic celebration 66:00 - Closing thoughts: design your day, set boundaries, and prioritize joy Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

May-Vember, the whirlwind of end-of-school chaos, can feel overwhelming even the most organized. This episode dives into realistic strategies for managing the hectic schedule, mom guilt, and societal pressures, all while fostering honesty and self-compassion. In this episode: The chaos of May-Vember and why it feels relentlessHow social media amplifies mom guilt and comparisonsPractical tips for simplifying schedules (say no more often)The importance of honesty about when you’re overwhelmedTeaching kids independence and resilience in busy timesGift-giving ideas that save time and reduce stressThe value of delegation and leaning on your support systemEmbracing "good enough" Mom moments and ditching perfectionStrategies for navigating spirit weeks and school events without burnoutHow to manage your mental load and prioritize self-care during peak busy seasonsTimestamps: 00:00 - Welcome, tackling end-of-school chaos "May-Vember" 01:25 - Identifying the chaos and societal expectations 02:53 - Mom guilt and social media pressure 04:48 - Realistic approaches: saying no and prioritizing 06:39 - Personal stories of mom mishaps and learning to let go 08:57 - Normalizing imperfect moments and self-compassion 10:22 - Gift ideas for teachers that are thoughtful yet simple 13:25 - Organizing hair-washing hacks and routines 15:13 - How social media distorts perceptions and fosters comparison 17:37 - Teaching kids independence and setting boundaries 20:52 - Celebrating kid-made costumes and the value of effort over perfection 22:30 - Recognizing burnout and the importance of self-care 25:42 - Processing mom guilt and re-evaluating commitments 29:36 - The art of delegating, outsourcing, and reducing your load 33:40 - Handling school events, trips, and social commitments with confidence 37:22 - The importance of flexible boundaries and saying "maybe" 42:55 - Embracing "good enough" as a mom in busy seasons 45:57 - Managing dinner routines and quick meal hacks 47:11 - Final encouragement: May-Vember is temporary, practice honest self-care Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this insightful interview,  Molly dives in deep with a conversation with Sally Bisbee! She shares her journey from motherhood and entrepreneurship to becoming a life coach for moms. She discusses practical strategies for self-care, managing household routines, and maintaining a healthy relationship with her partner amidst the chaos of parenting. key topics Self-care practices for momsCreating routines and systems in family lifeMaintaining relationships while parenting"You can't pour from an empty cup""Self-care isn't selfish, it's necessary""Husbands aren't mind readers"Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Minnesota Chit-Chat 03:12 Sally's Journey to Coaching 06:23 Finding Happiness in Motherhood 09:01 The Importance of Self-Care 12:15 Building a Supportive Community 15:16 Communication and Delegation in Parenting 18:15 Navigating Generational Differences in Parenting 36:15 Navigating Parenting Dynamics 39:41 The Importance of Self-Care 47:00 Building Routines and Systems 55:33 Maintaining Relationships Amidst Parenting 01:01:07 Rapid Fire Self-Care Tips 01:07:24 Introduction to Honest Mom Talk 01:07:54 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement 01:08:02 Introduction to Honest Conversations Resources Simply Sally CoachingDeclutter Your Life Workshop5 Life-Changing Hacks to Get Your Weekend Back (Freebie)10 Minute Clean Routine ChecklistSend us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

This episode explores the realities of being a mompreneur, balancing business and motherhood, and the importance of community and authenticity in entrepreneurial journeys. Hosts Molly and Jillian share personal stories, challenges, and insights into building successful businesses while navigating family life.  key  topics Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship The importance of community and accountability Overcoming feelings of isolation and comparison The evolution of business ideas and pivoting The role of validation and external support Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Guilt of Mompreneurship 00:43 The Complexities of Being a Mompreneur 05:19 Finding Purpose Beyond Motherhood 09:07 Creating Solutions Through Business 09:36 The Importance of Market Research in Entrepreneurship 10:12 Embracing Entrepreneurship and Validation 12:59 Balancing Business and Family Life 17:34 The Isolation of Mompreneurs 21:52 Navigating Self-Help and Personal Development 25:37 The Challenges of Service-Based Businesses 30:15 The Importance of Community and Networking 36:11 Finding Your Niche and Evolving Your Business 43:10 The Journey of Mompreneurs and Their Impact 46:20 Introduction to Honest Conversations  resources Honest Mom Talk Podcast - https://honestmomtalk.com Jensen Sincero - You Are a Badass Mastering Your Mean Girl  Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

This episode explores the importance of moms taking timeouts for themselves, similar to how we discipline kids. It offers practical tips for self-regulation, overcoming guilt, and building support systems to prioritize mental health in motherhood. key topics Mom timeouts as a self-care strategyRecognizing signs of overwhelm and overstimulationPractical methods for calming down quicklyOvercoming guilt around taking breaksThe importance of modeling self-care for childrentakeaways Mom timeouts are a valid and effective way to manage stress.Recognizing early signs of overwhelm can prevent escalation.Simple techniques like cold water or sour candy can reset your nervous system.Communicating needs for space helps children learn self-regulation.Asking for help and setting boundaries is essential for mental health.Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode, Molly and Jillian dive into the realities of Easter — from its over-commercialization to the chaos of egg hunts, family traditions, and the pressure to keep up. They share funny and honest stories about holiday expectations, the evolution of traditions, and how to simplify this often overwhelming day to make it truly enjoyable. Key Topics: The origins and commercialization of the Easter BunnyFamily traditions vs. modern parenting realitiesThe chaos and competitiveness of community egg huntsSimplifying holiday celebrations: store-bought eggs and minimal effortThe impact of societal and social media pressure on holiday aestheticsHow to set boundaries around gifts, expectations, and traditionsThe humorous side of holiday mishaps and misadventuresThe shift from formal holiday rituals to relaxed, authentic momentsNavigating cultural and religious aspects of Easter in diverse families Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode, Molly and Jillian explore how deep-rooted patterns like people pleasing influence our approaches to parenting and holiday celebrations. They share personal stories, societal observations, and practical tips for breaking free from these cycles to create healthier relationships with ourselves, our children, and family traditions.  Slay Like a Mother by Katherine Winsch Book: The Conscious Parent by Shefali Tsabary  Therapy resources: Psychology Today   Connect with Molly & Jillian:   Instagram  Email  Note: This episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing long-standing patterns like people pleasing and actively choosing healthier, more authentic ways to engage with our families and traditions. Remember, change takes time and self-compassion—you're doing great! Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode, Molly and Jillian explore the complex realities of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of spending quality time by yourself by doing things like sitting in the care on your own!. They share personal stories and practical tips for moms to recharge. Key Topics Covered: The psychological benefits of taking time alone, especially during car ridesThe impact of societal stereotypes and how to normalize self-carePractical tips for creating personal routines that honor your mental healthThe significance of teaching kids about boundaries and self-regulation through modelingHow to handle guilt associated with taking space and focusing on self-careThe role of social media in intensifying holiday pressures and consumer culture Resources & Links: Honest Mom Talk InstagramEmail UsMel Robbins: The 5 Second RuleThe Joneses Movie (2009) Connect with the Hosts: Molly - InstagramJillian - InstagramOptional: Feel inspired to create your own traditions and prioritize your mental health. Remember, moms deserve space and breaks—don’t let guilt steer your self-care. Share your favorite mom decompression strategies with us! Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, Molly and Jillian get real about what happens when kids are sick—how it impacts routines, mental health, and the support system we rely on. They share raw experiences, practical systems, and the importance of planning to maintain sanity and self-care amidst the chaos. Main Topics Covered: The emotional and logistical chaos when children fall illEstablishing emergency plans, bags, and routines for sick daysThe biological and psychological reasons moms are wired to prioritize children’s needsThe impact of illness on work, relationships, and self-careThe importance of communication, support systems, and setting boundariesReal talk about how societal expectations and gender roles influence who handles the chaosPractical tips for organizing medication, puke bags, and emergency suppliesThe significance of mental health breaks, micro self-care, and redefining successIn this episode: How kids' sickness can trigger melt-downs and overwhelm even the most organized momsCreating “idiot-proof” systems like dedicated sick bags, medication charts, and emergency suppliesThe biological basis for moms’ instinct to care for sick childrenChallenges of working from home with kids and the misconception of “easy” remote workThe role of societal and gendered expectations in default parenting rolesThe importance of having pre-planned conversations about support and routines during illnessTips for preserving mental health by taking intentional breaks, even during chaosHow to build systems that support mom resilience and minimize burnoutTimestamps: 00:00 - The chaos and overwhelm of children’s sick days 02:00 - Systems to manage medication and emergency supplies 04:30 - Biological reasons moms are wired to care more intensely when children are sick 07:00 - Challenges of working from home while kids are ill 10:00 - Societal expectations around default parenting roles 13:00 - Support systems and creating support plans before illness strikes 16:00 - The importance of mental health breaks and micro self-care 20:00 - Organizational strategies for handling sick supplies and routines 23:00 - The significance of communication with partners and support networks 27:00 - Redefining success and expectations in motherhood during crises Resources & Links: (these are affiliate links) Bluey – Boring. Things are ImportantPuke Bags from AmazonFirst Aid SuppliesOrganized Medical and Emergency KitsConnect with Molly & Jillian: Instagram: honestmomtalkpodEmail: [email protected] Note: Remember, no mother is perfect, and systems are meant to support, not complicate. Sharing tips, setting boundaries, and building a reliable network are key to surviving—and thriving—through those sick days. You're doing enough simply by showing up. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, Molly and Jillian dive into the messy, rarely discussed reality of what happens when moms get sick. From fevers and stomach bugs to mental exhaustion and burnout, mothers are often expected to continue parenting, caregiving, and managing households without pause—even when their own health needs attention. Through honest conversation and personal stories, Molly and Jillian unpack the societal expectations placed on mothers, the invisible mental load of caregiving, and why moms so often feel guilty for resting or asking for help. The hosts explore how motherhood culture often glorifies pushing through illness instead of prioritizing recovery, and how that mindset contributes to mom burnout, chronic stress, and emotional exhaustion. Listeners will hear real-life examples of how illness affects the entire household dynamic—from disrupted routines and sick kids to partners stepping in (or sometimes not). Molly and Jillian also discuss the importance of building strong support systems, setting boundaries, and normalizing rest and self-care for moms. This episode offers both validation and practical guidance for mothers who are trying to balance parenting responsibilities, personal health, and the pressure to keep everything together. If you’ve ever tried to parent while sick, felt guilty for needing rest, or wondered why moms aren’t “allowed” to be sick, this conversation will resonate. In This Episode We Discuss The reality of being a sick mom and why it feels so different from anyone else being sickThe invisible labor and mental load mothers carry when managing a householdWhy society expects moms to keep going even when they’re physically or mentally exhaustedThe emotional toll of mom guilt and burnoutHow illness affects family routines and caregiving dynamicsWhy building a support network for moms matters more than we thinkPractical ways to ask for help and prioritize self-care during sicknessKey Takeaways for Moms Mothers deserve rest, recovery, and care just like anyone else.Asking for help is not weakness—it’s a necessary part of sustainable parenting.Prioritizing your health benefits not just you, but your entire family.Building supportive partnerships and community makes navigating illness easier.About Honest Mom Talk Honest Mom Talk is a podcast hosted by Molly Ryden and Jillian that explores the real, unfiltered experience of modern motherhood. Each episode tackles the mental load, emotional challenges, societal pressures, and everyday realities that moms face—while offering empathy, humor, and practical strategies for navigating it all. Connect With Us Follow Honest Mom Talk for more conversations about motherhood, mental health, boundaries, and reclaiming your identity beyond the role of mom. Subscribe, rate, and review the show to help more moms find these conversations. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, hosts Molly and Jillian dive into the realities of motherhood, discussing mental health, community, and the importance of honest conversations among moms. They share personal anecdotes, explore the challenges of parenting, and emphasize the need for support and understanding in a world where social media often showcases only the highlights. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on various topics relevant to mothers, creating a safe space for open dialogue. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

In this Season 7 preview episode, Molly and Jillian discuss the complexities of Valentine's Day celebrations, the pressures of school involvement, and the impact of consumerism on family traditions. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with school events, wedding planning, and the expectations placed on parents. The conversation highlights the importance of finding balance and doing what feels right for each family, while also addressing the societal pressures that can make parenting feel overwhelming. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

We're getting really honest about accountability. Today Molly discusses the critical theme of accountability, particularly in the context of recent events in Minneapolis. She highlights the lack of transparency and compassion from leaders during heightened immigration enforcement and the tragic consequences that have ensued. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of accountability on trust and parenting, emphasizing the importance of modeling accountability for children. Molly also reflects on her personal experiences and the need for community engagement during challenging times. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/