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After nearly eight years of Mama Work It, five years of the podcast, and over 230 episodes, Marisa's pressing pause. But this isn't a goodbye. In this deeply personal solo episode, Marisa shares what she's been reflecting on over the past year—and why she knows it's time for a different chapter. Sometimes we assume that if we built something, love something, or worked incredibly hard for something, we're supposed to keep doing it forever. But what happens when you change? What happens when the thing that once lit you up doesn't anymore? And what if deciding to step away isn't failure—but growth? Marisa opens up about her decision to pause Mama Work It more permanently, and her excitement about stepping into a new chapter. She also talks about something we don't hear enough about: the freedom to outgrow a dream you worked really hard to build. Because sometimes the dream wasn't wrong. Sometimes you just aren't the same person who dreamed it. Here's what Marisa talks about on today's episode: Why this year's summer break from Mama Work It felt different The difference between a seasonal pause and a life decision What it feels like when your intuition is speaking to you Why being proud of something doesn't mean you have to do it forever Giving yourself permission to outgrow your own dreams The discomfort of changing your mind when you're a planner Why Marisa is excited to return to being part of a team Why you don't always need to know exactly what's next How motherhood has taught her to embrace change and uncertainty The importance of making decisions based on who you are now, not who you were five years ago Nothing's permanent! If you've been feeling that little voice telling you, "Maybe this isn't it anymore," this episode is your permission slip to listen. You don't need a perfectly mapped-out five-year plan. You don't even need to know what comes next. You can simply acknowledge that you've changed. And that the life you want now might not be the life you wanted before. That's not failure. That's growth. While Marisa is stepping away from weekly podcast and newsletter content, the Mama Work It library isn't going anywhere. You can still explore nearly 240 episodes of the podcast, visit the Mama Work It blog, and find Marisa's courses on Udemy. Marisa will also continue coaching a select number of clients, with a more limited schedule. And as for the podcast? Maybe she'll be back. Maybe it will look different. Maybe six months from now she'll wake up and decide, "Today's the day." Who knows? For now, she's choosing to pause—and see what happens next. Links mentioned in today's episode: Explore the Mama Work It Podcast: https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast Browse the Mama Work It Blog: https://www.mamaworkit.com/blog Take Marisa's courses or book Marisa to speak: https://www.mamaworkit.com/services Interested in coaching with Marisa? She'll be working with a limited number of clients during this next chapter. Schedule a free discovery call here: https://calendly.com/mamaworkit/30-minute-breakthrough-call-with-marisa-lonic You are allowed to change your mind about the life you built. You are allowed to want something different. You are allowed to pause. And you are allowed to begin again. Keep on working it, mama. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does self-care actually look like when you're juggling work, motherhood, relationships, and everything in between? In this encore episode of Mama Work It, Marisa sits down with Leslie Forde, founder and CEO of Mom's Hierarchy of Needs, to discuss self-care, burnout prevention, and the realities of working motherhood. Drawing from both personal experience and research, Leslie shares why so many working moms struggle to prioritize themselves and what they can do to create sustainable well-being practices. In this episode, you'll learn: Why self-care often falls to the bottom of a working mom's priority list The connection between self-care and burnout prevention Research findings about the challenges facing working parents How to identify your most important self-care needs Practical ways to prioritize yourself without guilt Sustainable self-care strategies that fit real life Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or simply looking to create healthier habits, this episode offers practical guidance for putting yourself back on your priority list. To connect with Leslie: https://momshierarchyofneeds.com/ For more working mom resources or to become a Mama Work It VIP subscriber: www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this encore episode of Mama Work It, Marisa revisits one of the podcast's most impactful conversations with Dr. Ritu Saluja Sharma about the powerful connection between sleep, stress, hormones, and overall health. For working moms, sleep deprivation and chronic stress often become a way of life. But as Dr. Ritu explains, poor sleep can affect everything from energy levels and mood to weight management, immunity, and mental clarity. In this episode, you'll learn: How chronic stress impacts your body and brain Why sleep is essential for physical and emotional health The relationship between hormones, stress, and fatigue Simple strategies to improve sleep quality Practical ways moms can prioritize rest without guilt Whether you're feeling burned out, overwhelmed, or simply exhausted from juggling work and motherhood, this conversation offers science-backed insights and realistic advice to help you reclaim your energy and sanity. This episode is being sponsored by AirDoctor, Newsweek's Readers' Choice Award for best air purifier. Go to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code MAMA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, plus AirDoctor’s 30-day money back guarantee. This is an exclusive podcast only offer for Mama Work It listeners, available now at www.AirDoctorPro.com! Connect with Dr. Ritu here: www.headhearthandsmd.com Don't forget to subscribe to the Mama Work It newsletter: www.mamaworkit.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Returning to work after maternity leave can feel overwhelming, emotional, and filled with uncertainty. In this encore episode of Mama Work It, Marisa revisits her conversation with Lori Mihalich-Levin, founder of Mindful Return and author of Back to Work After Baby. Lori shares practical strategies to help working moms successfully navigate the transition from maternity leave back into their careers while maintaining their well-being and family priorities. In this episode, you'll learn: How to prepare emotionally for returning to work after baby Micro-mindfulness strategies for busy moms Ways to ease the transition back into your professional role How to phase back into work when possible What organizations can do to better support working parents Tips for managing mom guilt and overwhelm If you're expecting, currently on maternity leave, recently returned to work, or supporting working parents on your team, this episode offers actionable advice and encouragement for navigating one of motherhood's biggest transitions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you ever feel like you're one mistake away from being "found out"? You're not alone. In this encore episode of Mama Work It, Marisa revisits her conversation with Lauren Smit about overcoming imposter syndrome and building confidence as a working mom. Lauren specializes in helping women identify the different types of imposter syndrome that may be holding them back from reaching their goals. Together, they explore how self-doubt can quietly influence career growth, leadership, entrepreneurship, and even everyday decision-making. In this episode, you'll learn: The five types of imposter syndrome How imposter syndrome shows up for working moms Why successful women often struggle with self-doubt The biggest mistake women make when receiving compliments Practical tools to build confidence and quiet your inner critic Strategies for pursuing bigger goals without waiting to feel "ready" Whether you're leading a team, growing a business, changing careers, or simply trying to trust yourself more, this episode will help you recognize and overcome the mindset patterns that may be keeping you stuck. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two high school best friends become moms of seven kids combined? You get a long list of parenting tactics that sound completely ridiculous—but somehow work. In this laugh-out-loud episode of Mama Work It, host Marisa Lonic is joined by her longtime friend Mia Fitzharris, a former television producer and mom of three, to share the most unhinged things moms do to survive modern parenting. From pretending the park is closed and blaming everything on the luteal phase to sneaking snacks into movie theaters and using Costco samples as a legitimate meal plan, Marisa and Mia are exposing the harmless lies, creative systems, and confidence-building shortcuts that keep family life running. But beneath the humor is an important message: motherhood isn't about perfection. It's about resourcefulness, adaptability, and finding what works for your family. Whether you're a working mom, stay-at-home mom, or somewhere in between, you'll probably find yourself saying, "Wait... I do that too." In This Episode: The funniest parenting lies moms tell Why moms become professional snack smugglers Costco parenting hacks we fully support And so much more (you need to listen, trust us) About Mia Fitzharris Mia Fitzharris is a former television producer, mom of three, and Marisa's best friend since high school. Together, they bring decades of friendship, parenting experience, and plenty of hilarious stories to this candid conversation about motherhood, confidence, and surviving family life. This episode is being sponsored by AirDoctor, Newsweek's Readers' Choice Award for best air purifier. Go to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code MAMA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, plus AirDoctor’s 30-day money back guarantee. This is an exclusive podcast only offer for Mama Work It listeners, available now at www.AirDoctorPro.com! Connect With Mama Work It If you enjoyed, appreciated, or even felt seen in this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more moms navigating career, motherhood, and everything in between. Plus--don't forget to subscribe to our free weekly newsletter and check out more working mom resources here: www.mamaworkit.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Summer can be one of the most joyful — and most overwhelming — seasons for working moms. In this episode of the Mama Work It podcast, Marisa Lonic shares how to plan, manage, and actually enjoy summer while balancing career responsibilities and kids out of school. From childcare logistics and work scheduling to emotional challenges and creating meaningful family memories, this episode offers practical strategies for designing a summer that feels intentional — not chaotic. Links mentioned in today’s episode: Kids Bowl Free: https://www.kidsbowlfree.com/ Subscribe to the Mama Work It newsletter: www.mamaworkit.com Mama Work It Podcast episode 185: Summer Triggers for Working Moms https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/7da6b586/summer-triggers-for-working-moms P.S. Don't miss this exclusive offer for Mama Work It listeners! AquaTru, the countertop water purifier tested & certified to remove 84 contaminants, including chlorine, lead, forever chemicals, and microplastics is available now for 20% off. Go to AquaTru.com for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code MAMA  AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee. Don't wait! Hydrate! summer as a working mom, working mom summer schedule, balancing work and kids in summer, summer planning for moms, working mom summer tips, how to manage summer break as a working mom, creating summer memories while working full time, summer organization tips for busy moms, managing childcare in summer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take to show up with confidence—especially as a mom balancing career, identity, and visibility? In this episode of Mama Work It, Marisa sits down with media expert and former TV news anchor Lauren Petrowski to talk about confidence, communication, and learning to own your voice both on and off camera. With nearly 20 years of experience in television, media training, public speaking, and content creation, Lauren shares practical strategies for overcoming self-doubt, speaking with authority, and building a personal brand that feels authentic. From navigating career pivots to balancing motherhood and ambition, this conversation is packed with relatable insight and actionable encouragement for women ready to stop shrinking and start showing up boldly. Whether you’re a business owner, content creator, working mom, or someone trying to feel more confident in everyday life, this episode will inspire you to step into the room with more clarity and confidence. In This Episode We Discuss: Building confidence on camera and in public speaking Overcoming imposter syndrome as a mom Personal branding and media presence Transitioning careers with confidence Tips for showing up authentically online Confidence after motherhood Speaking with clarity and authority Connect with Lauren: Website: www.laurenpetrowski.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurenpetrowski Don't forget to subscribe to the Mama Work It Newsletter! Working mom tips, tricks, and support delivered straight to your inbox every Wednesday. www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenting today includes a challenge no generation has faced before: protecting kids online. This week on Mama Work It, Marisa sits down with internet safety expert Fareedah Shaheed, aka CyberFareedah, to discuss how parents can keep children safer online—from predators and social media risks to understanding the hidden threats beyond. Drawing from her personal story and years in cybersecurity, Fareedah shares practical tools every parent can use right now. We cover: How online predators operate Common digital safety mistakes parents make Social media and phone boundaries Online safety for busy working moms Fareedah's SAFE Method for protecting kids online This episode is essential listening for every parent. To connect with Fareedah or join her PKO (Protecting Kids Online Membership): Website: https://www.cyberfareedah.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fareedahshaheed/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/cyberfareedah/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CyberFareedah TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@cyberfareedah Join Fareedah's Protect Kids Online (PKO) Membership: https://sekuva.mykajabi.com/a/41267/ZVmhRm58 Free Protect Kids Online (PKO) Resource Library: https://sekuva.mykajabi.com/get-your-internet-safety-resource-library Don't forget to subscribe to the Mama Work It Newsletter: www.mamaworkit.com. Working mom tips, tricks, and support delivered straight to your inbox every Wednesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this 42nd birthday episode of the Mama Work It podcast, host Marisa Lonic shares 42 powerful, practical, and personal lessons she’s learned as a working mom. From navigating career pivots and setting boundaries to surviving burnout and redefining success, these working mom tips are designed to help you build a life and career that actually work for your season. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, ambitious, stuck, or inspired — this episode offers honest guidance on motherhood, productivity, mindset, identity, and balance. In This Episode: Links Mentioned: Mama Work It Podcast episode 209: How to Stop Comparing Your Motherhood Journey https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/7b0debc2/how-to-stop-comparing-your-motherhood-journey Mama Work It Podcast episode 194: Raising Grateful Kids https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/7b7ceffa/raising-grateful-kids Mama Work It Podcast episode 215: Parenting Through Burnout https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/fcebfc6f/parenting-through-burnout Mama Work It Podcast episode 224: Surviving Maycember as a Working Mom https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/33cf3b05/surviving-maycember-as-a-working-mom Mama Work It Blog: Stop Letting Your Schedule Control You https://www.mamaworkit.com/post/stop-letting-your-schedule-control-you Mama Work It Podcast episode 113: Holiday Habits for Moms https://www.mamaworkit.com/podcast/episode/8048ea02/holiday-habits-for-moms Time MOMagement – use this link to get it for $19.99 RIGHT NOW (valid through June 30, 2026) https://www.udemy.com/course/time-momagement/?couponCode=TM42BDAY Schedule a FREE coaching breakthrough call: https://calendly.com/mamaworkit/30-minute-breakthrough-call-with-marisa-lonic This episode is being sponsored by AirDoctor, Newsweek's Readers' Choice Award for best air purifier. Go to AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code MAMA to get $250 off select AirDoctor air purifiers, plus, a free 3 year warranty, and AirDoctor’s 30-day money back guarantee. This is an exclusive podcast only offer for Mama Work It listeners, available now at www.AirDoctorPro.com! Don't forget to subscribe to the Mama Work It newsletter here: www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can you really raise bilingual kids without being fluent, having tons of time, or feeling overwhelmed? In this episode of Mama Work It, Marisa sits down with Houston-based educator, mom of three, and bilingual parenting expert Rachel Xi to talk about what it actually looks like to raise bilingual children in real life. With a master’s degree from Rice University and a background in teaching language, science, and movement, Rachel shares practical, doable strategies for incorporating Mandarin and cultural connection into everyday family life—without pressure or perfection. We talk about: How Rachel started her bilingual parenting journey Realistic routines for busy working moms Mindset shifts that make bilingual parenting possible Handling resistance from kids Simple ways to integrate language and culture into daily life How to start-even if you don't feel "qualified" Whether you’re raising bilingual kids already or just starting to explore it, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and inspired. Connect with Rachel:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelxeverafter/ Podcast: Once Upon a Time, Twice with Ms. Rachel Xi https://open.spotify.com/show/4MSvUrimNhYR803zMp0Y6F Other links mentioned: Chinese dramas Rachel recommends: Everyone Loves Me Shine On Me Put Your Head On My Shoulder Exclusive offer for Mama Work It listeners! AquaTru, the countertop water purifier tested & certified to remove 84 contaminants, including chlorine, lead, forever chemicals, and microplastics is available now for 20% off. Go to AquaTru.com for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code MAMA  AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee. Don't wait! Hydrate! Be sure to subscribe to the Mama Work It newsletter so you never miss an update: www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How much of our parenting is shaped by how we were parented? This week on Mama Work It, Marisa sits down with licensed therapist and parenting educator Ashley Ayala to talk about breaking generational patterns, emotional regulation, and raising connected, resilient kids. Ashley shares practical tools for understanding child behavior, navigating triggers, repairing after conflict, and parenting with more compassion and confidence. We discuss: Breaking intergenerational parenting cycles Nervous system regulation for moms and kids Connection-based discipline Healing family dynamics Letting go of parenting perfectionism If you’ve ever wondered how to parent differently than you were raised—this conversation is for you. Connect with Ashley: www.themodernparent247.com https://www.instagram.com/the_modern_parent/ https://www.youtube.com/@themodernparent Don't forget to subscribe to the Mama Work It Newsletter so you never miss a working mom beat: www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Struggling with end-of-school-year chaos? Marisa Lonic shares practical tips for working moms to survive Maycember with less stress, better planning, and more balance. Maycember — the chaotic end-of-school-year season — can feel overwhelming for working moms balancing careers, kids, and countless events. In this episode of the Mama Work It podcast, Marisa Lonic shares practical strategies to help working moms plan, prioritize, and simplify during one of the busiest times of the year. From managing packed schedules and reducing decision fatigue to protecting your energy and letting go of perfection, this episode is your survival guide to navigating Maycember without burnout. Listen here or wherever you catch your podcasts and don't forget to subscribe! www.mamaworkit.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GLP-1 medications are everywhere—but are they right for you, mama? In this episode of the Mama Work It Podcast, we’re joined by Mary Stewart, registered dietitian nutritionist, GLP-1 success coach, and founder of Cultivate Nutrition, to break down what busy working moms actually need to know about GLP-1s and sustainable weight loss. With nearly 20 years of experience and a background in corporate sales, Mary understands the realities of balancing a demanding career, family life, and personal health. She shares a practical, judgment-free perspective on how GLP-1 medications work, who they may help, and why foundational habits like nutrition, strength training, and mindset matter more than ever—whether or not medication is part of the picture. This conversation cuts through the noise and diet culture to help working moms make informed, empowered decisions about their health—without adding more overwhelm. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What GLP-1 medications are and how they work Common misconceptions about GLP-1s and weight loss The foundational habits that support success with or without GLP-1s Red flags and common mistakes to avoid when using GLP-1s How to ditch perfection and focus on sustainable health for the long term Key Takeaways GLP-1s are a tool-not a shortcut or failure Sustainable habits matter more than the number on the scale Busy moms deserve simple, realistic health strategies Health should support your life, not consume it Who This Episode Is For ✔️ Working moms curious about GLP-1s ✔️Women struggling with energy or weight ✔️Moms overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice ✔️Anyone seeking a sustainable approach to health To connect with Mary and learn more about Cultivate Nutrition: https://www.instagram.com/cultivate_nutrition_ https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartmary https://www.facebook.com/CultivateTheHealthiestYou Free Training: https://cultivatenutrition.com/new-era Free recipe book: https://cultivatenutrition.com/freebie 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and subscribe to the Mama Work It Podcast for real conversations that support working moms at work and at home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Do you feel like you and your partner keep having the same fight—just on repeat? In this episode of the Mama Work It Podcast, we’re joined by Julie Menanno, licensed therapist, attachment expert, and author of the bestselling book Secure Love. Julie breaks down why couples get stuck in negative relationship cycles, how attachment styles show up in everyday moments, and what working moms can do to create more secure, loving relationships—even in the middle of busy, stressful seasons. Motherhood, career demands, and mental load can amplify old attachment wounds, making small conflicts feel bigger than they are. Julie explains how understanding attachment helps shift relationships from blame and frustration to compassion and connection. This episode is a must-listen for working moms who want healthier communication, fewer blowups, and deeper emotional safety at home. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What negative relationship cycles are and why couples repeat them How attachment styles show up during stress and conflict Why motherhood often activates attachment wounds How to interrupt negative cycles in real time Small shifts that create more secure attachment What a secure relationship actually feels like How to build emotional safety without perfection Key Takeaways: The problem isn't your partner-it's the cycle Attachment patterns can be understood and changed Security is built through repair, not avoidance Small changes in communication create big shifts over time Who This Episode is For: ✔️ Working moms feeling disconnected in their relationships ✔️ Women navigating repeated arguments or emotional distance ✔️ Moms curious about attachment styles and secure love ✔️ Couples wanting healthier communication without blame To connect with Julie and/or purchase her book, Secure Love: https://www.thesecurerelationship.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thesecurerelationship/ https://open.spotify.com/show/356M9yOm8lNwOfBAHctAWq https://www.youtube.com/@juliemenanno https://amzn.to/4tjM1pH This episode is being sponsored by AquaTru, the countertop water purifier tested & certified to remove 84 contaminants, including chlorine, lead, forever chemicals, and microplastics. Go to AquaTru.com now for 20% off (your purifier) using promo code MAMA  AquaTru even comes with a 30-day best-tasting water guarantee. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to the Mama Work It Podcast for honest conversations about motherhood, work, and relationships. Don't forget to become a VIP newsletter subscriber here: www.mamaworkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices