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Send us Fan Mail Kids, Connection & the Power of Play with Nicole Weirich of The Clubhouse Are our kids getting enough time to just be kids? Between packed schedules, homework, activities, and screens, it can be easy to forget how important it is for children to have time to play, make friends, use their imaginations, and figure things out on their own. On this episode of MomsWork Podcast, I'm joined by Nicole Weirich of The Clubhouse in Phoenixville, PA, a place focused on bringing kids together to play, socialize, and build friendships. We're talking about the power of play, why unstructured time matters, and how kids learn some of life's most important lessons simply by interacting with one another. We also get into the challenges of screen time, and helping kids make friends and make connections. Because sometimes, what our kids need most isn't another scheduled activity or a new device. It's the chance to connect, be silly, work through disagreements, and enjoy being kids. In this episode, we discuss: Why play is so important for children's growth and development What kids learn through unstructured play and even a little boredom Whether we've overscheduled childhood Realistic ways to encourage less screen time and more interaction Helping kids navigate friendships and different kinds of friendships Why children need opportunities to share, compromise, and work things out The importance of community and belonging for kids and parents Simple ways to create more opportunities for connection, independence, and fun Whether you're trying to get your kids off their devices, helping them navigate friendships, or simply looking for ways to slow down and make childhood feel a little less scheduled, this conversation is a reminder that the simple things can make a big difference. About Nicole & The Clubhouse Nicole Weirich is connected to The Clubhouse, a place dedicated to bringing kids together through play, social interaction, and friendship. The Clubhouse: https://theclubhousepa.com/  Instagram: @theclubhousepa Facebook: @theclubhouse Connect with MomsWork Podcast: 🎧 Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts: Apple Podcasts ▶️ Watch on YouTube 🌐 Visit MomsWorkPodcast.com 📱 Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube: @momsworkpodcast If you enjoy the show, please follow or subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a parent or friend who might enjoy it. Every share helps MomsWork Podcast grow! Thanks for listening to MomsWork Podcast — where we talk about parenting, family, work, and all the real-life stuff in between.

Send us Fan Mail Dancing Through Life with Tim & Tolly Sherry @timtoksherry: Finding Joy, Family & Connection What happens when you combine marriage, parenting, retirement, music, and a whole lot of dancing? You get Tim and Tolly Sherry! Better known online as @timtoksherry, Tim and Tolly have captured the attention of thousands with their joyful dance videos — but there's so much more to their story than what you see on social media. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Tim and Tolly to talk about their journey as a couple, raising a family, careers dedicated to serving others, and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. Tolly is a retired teacher who spent decades working with children, while Tim has been in sales for his whole career and is also the co-founder of Bringing Hope Home, an organization that supports families facing cancer. They share how their careers shaped their approach to family, the values they prioritized as parents, and the traditions that helped create their family culture.  And, of course, Kristin gets the story behind the dancing! How did it become such an important part of their lives? Why do their videos connect with so many people? And how has dancing strengthened the joy in their lives? They also talk about retirement, becoming empty nesters, entering a new season of life, and why finding joy doesn't have to get harder as we get older.  It's a conversation about marriage, parenting, purpose, connection and remembering to have a little fun along the way. In this episode:  How Tim and Tolly met  Their journey as parents  Tolly's career in education  Tim's work with Bringing Hope Home  The values and traditions that shaped their family  How dancing became part of their story  Why their social media videos resonate with so many people  Marriage and connection  Retirement and becoming empty nesters  Finding joy in everyday moments  Embracing a new season of life  Advice for couples entering a new chapter together  Follow Tim & Tolly Follow along with Tim and Tolly's dancing, family life and everyday adventures on social media: @timtoksherry on instagram and TikTok Follow/subscribe to MomsWork Podcast on your preferred podcast platform Listen, follow and subscribe to MomsWork Podcast wherever you get your podcasts and on youtube, instagram and Facebook @momsworkpodcast Mentioned in the Show Bringing Hope Home: www.bringinghopehome.org Tolly's Book Recommendations The Women and The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah: https://kristinhannah.com/  Theo of Golden by Allen Levi: https://www.allenlevi.com/the-book  Tim's Book Recommendations: Ghost Rider by Neil Pert: https://ecwpress.com/products/ghost-rider Brad Sherry on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brad_sherry  Funky Fresh Dance Party: https://funkyfreshdanceparty.com/  Millennial Entertainment: https://www.millentertainment.com/  Restaurants in West Chester/Malvern, PA Limoncello: https://www.limoncellorestaurant.com/  Spence Cafe: https://www.spence.cafe/ General Warren Inne: https://www.generalwarren.com/ Taco Mar: https://tacomar.com/ And don't forget to connect with MomsWork on social media and visit MomsWorkPodcast.com! Real Conversations. Real Parents. Real Life.

Send us Fan Mail I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream for Family & Ice Cream What happens when an ice cream shop becomes a family business — and a family business becomes part of the community? In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin Weinrich sits down with Haley Buchanan, one of seven Buchanan siblings whose family has been behind Handel’s Ice Cream in Berwyn for more than 21 years. In 2005, Haley’s parents, Carmie and Buck Buchanan, purchased the Handel’s franchise and brought it to the Philadelphia suburbs. What started as a business has grown into a true multigenerational family operation, with parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren all becoming part of the story. Kristin and Haley talk about what it’s really like to grow up in a family business, work alongside your parents and six siblings, and watch the next generation become involved. They also get into the fun — and reality — of running an ice cream business, including the behind-the-scenes work people don't always see, the challenges of unpredictable weather, and whether Haley still gets excited about ice cream after all these years! But this conversation goes far beyond ice cream. The Buchanan family has made community involvement and giving back an important part of Handel’s, supporting local organizations and becoming a familiar part of life in the Main Line community. And with a new Handel’s location opening in Havertown this October, Haley shares what the family is bringing from 21 years in Berwyn into this exciting next chapter. In this episode, we talk about: 🍦 Growing up as one of seven children in a family business 🍦 How Haley's parents brought Handel’s to Berwyn 21 years ago 🍦 What it's really like working with your parents and siblings 🍦 The benefits — and challenges — of working with family 🍦 Balancing family relationships and business responsibilities 🍦 The reality of running an ice cream shop 🍦 Community involvement and giving back 🍦 Watching the next generation become part of the family business 🍦 The opening of the new Handel’s location in Havertown 🍦 Family traditions, memories, and lessons passed down through generations 🍦 And, of course… Haley's favorite ice cream flavor! This episode is a reminder that sometimes a business becomes about so much more than what you're selling. For the Buchanan family, Handel’s has created a place where family, community, hard work, and a lot of ice cream come together. About Haley Buchanan Haley Buchanan is part of the family behind Handel’s Ice Cream in Berwyn, Pennsylvania. One of seven Buchanan children, Haley has grown up watching her family build a business that has become a beloved part of the local community. Today, multiple generations of the Buchanan family are involved as the business continues to grow. 📍 Handel’s Ice Cream Berwyn: @handelsicecreamberwyn on instagram, Handel's Homemade Ice Cream (Berwyn, PA) on Facebook  📍 Handel’s Ice Cream Havertown: @handelshavertown and Handel's Havertown on Facebook Follow MomsWork Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, follow or subscribe to MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen so you never miss a new episode! And follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube: @momsworkpodcast Have a topic, guest idea, or story you'd love to hear on MomsWork? Get in touch at [email protected]. Thanks for listening to MomsWork — honest conversations about work, parenthood, family, and becoming ourselves along the way.

Send us Fan Mail Sending Your Child to College: Navigating the Emotional Transition to Empty Nest MomsWork Podcast with Kristin Weinrich & Maggie Sieklicki There are few parenting milestones as exciting — and emotional — as sending your child off to college. After 18 years of school drop-offs, packed lunches, sports practices, homework, family dinners, and being the person your child turns to for just about everything, suddenly you're helping them pack up their room and move into a college dorm. And then… you have to leave. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin Weinrich sits down with Maggie Sieklicki, a wife, mom, and first-grade teacher who recently dropped her only daughter off at Penn State University for her freshman year. Maggie shares what it was really like preparing her daughter — and herself — for this huge transition, from the endless college shopping lists and dorm room preparations to the much harder emotional work of letting go. In This Episode, We Talk About: What it's like parenting an only child and watching them grow up The biggest logistical challenges of getting ready for college What your child actually needs for their dorm — and what you probably don't need to buy! Preparing your child to become more independent before leaving home The emotions that come with college move-in day The moment when it really hits you that your child is leaving What it's like going home without your child How often to communicate with your college freshman Finding the balance between checking in and giving your child space What to do when your child calls home feeling homesick or overwhelmed Knowing when to step in and when to let your child figure things out What changes for a mom when her child leaves for college The things Maggie misses most — and the unexpected positives of this new stage Advice for parents preparing to send their own children off to college How to start encouraging independence long before move-in day What parents should do — and shouldn't do — once their child is away Learning to embrace a new kind of motherhood The Emotional Side of Letting Go We spend years preparing our children to become independent. But when the moment actually arrives, it's not always easy to step back and let them go. Maggie opens up about the emotions surrounding move-in day, the first weeks of college, and learning how to navigate her new role as a mom of a college student. Because sending your child to college isn't just a transition for them. It's a transition for you, too. A Message for Parents If you're getting ready to send a child to college — or you're still a few years away — this conversation is full of honest advice, reassurance, and reminders that you're not alone. Your child leaving home doesn't mean they don't need you anymore. It simply means they need you in a different way. And maybe letting go isn't about stepping away. Maybe it's about trusting that all those years of parenting, teaching, guiding, and loving them have prepared them for this moment. LASTAR Sun Lamp, 10,000 Lux Sunlight Lamp with 4 Color Temperatures & 5 Brightness & 1H Timer, Touch Control Daylight Lamp with Memory Function for Home https://lastarhome.com/KRISTIN10LASTAR Discount code: KRISTIN10LASTAR Connect with MomsWork Podcast If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more conversations about parenting, work, family, and the real-life moments that come with raising kids. Instagram & Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcast YouTube: MomsWork Podcast

Send us Fan Mail Motherhood Was Never Meant to Be a Solo JobWhat if motherhood isn't a competency problem — but a support problem? In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin Weinrich sits down with Melissa Bradley — wife, mom of four, occupational therapist, lactation consultant, and founder of MAMA & BABE — to talk about something so many moms experience but don't always say out loud: we weren't meant to do this alone. Moms are constantly told we can do it all. Be independent. Figure it out. Keep everyone happy. Balance work and family. And somehow make it all look effortless. But needing help doesn't mean we're failing. Kristin and Melissa talk about the pressure moms feel to be capable of everything, why asking for help can feel so uncomfortable, and the difference between being independent and trying to carry the entire load by yourself. They also explore how a mom's need for support changes throughout motherhood — from postpartum and feeding, to returning to work, navigating routines, and raising older children. Because while the challenges change, the need for community doesn't disappear. Melissa shares how her own experiences as a mom and professional led her to create MAMA & BABE, a space built around supporting the whole mom — not just the baby, the feeding, the schedule, or one particular challenge. In this episode, we talk about: Why asking for help can feel like a failureThe difference between independence and doing everything aloneWhy capable moms can sometimes struggle the most with asking for supportHow the mental load makes it harder to recognize when we need helpThe different kinds of support moms need throughout motherhoodWhat it means to look at the whole momHow partners, family, and friends can provide meaningful supportFinding your village — and learning to actually use itThe inspiration behind MAMA & BABEWhat moms can let go of trying to do perfectlyAnd the reminder that motherhood was never meant to be a solo jobPlus, Melissa and Kristin share their wins and challenges of the week and tackle some fun rapid-fire questions. The takeaway You don't have to prove you're a good mom by doing everything yourself. Being capable doesn't mean you're meant to carry it all alone. Motherhood is hard enough. Let's stop treating support like a luxury and start recognizing it for what it is: part of what makes motherhood possible. Connect with Melissa: Learn more about MAMA & BABE and follow Melissa's work for more conversations and support around motherhood, feeding, transitions, and the whole-mom experience. Instagram: @mamababecharlotte Facebook: Melissa D'Ambrosio Bradley Website: https://www.mamababecharlotte.com/ Listen to MomsWork Podcast: Find MomsWork Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube at @MomsWorkPodcast. If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, share, and leave a review — it helps more parents find the conversations happening on MomsWork.

Send us Fan Mail Dr. Noelle Santorelli – Mean Girls, Mean Moms & Female Friendships Have you ever thought, “Wait…aren’t we too old for this?” The truth is, the “mean girl” phenomenon doesn’t necessarily end when we leave middle school. Exclusion, cliques, gossip, competition, and complicated friendships can follow us well into adulthood—and motherhood can sometimes bring an entirely new layer to these dynamics. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin Weinrich sits down with Dr. Noelle Santorelli, a therapist, mom, and expert in women’s relationships and family dynamics, to talk about the complicated world of female friendships. Why can being left out still hurt so much as an adult? Why do mean-girl behaviors continue into motherhood? And how do we navigate difficult friendships while making sure we aren't contributing to the very behavior we dislike? Kristin and Noelle talk honestly about: What “mean girl” behavior looks like—and why it doesn't necessarily disappear with age Why exclusion can be so painful, even as adults The role insecurity, comparison, and competition can play in friendships How to handle gossip, cliques, and feeling left out Knowing when to address a difficult friendship and when it's healthier to walk away Why friendship breakups can feel just as painful as romantic breakups How to know when a friendship is worth repairing—and when it's okay to outgrow one Helping our children navigate friendship drama, exclusion, and bullying What to do when your child is being excluded How social media has changed friendships for both kids and adults Setting healthy boundaries in our own relationships The difference between healthy conflict and unhealthy behavior Noelle also shares her friendship red flags and green flags, along with advice every mom can use when it comes to helping her children—and herself—build healthier, kinder relationships. Because friendships should add to our lives, not leave us constantly questioning where we stand. Follow Dr. Noelle Santorelli: Instagram & Facebook: @drnoellesantorelli Website: www.drnoellesantorelli.com Mentioned in the Episode  Ashley Tisdale article: https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/ashley-tisdale-reveals-left-toxic-mom-group-rcna252607 (From Chat GPT) "Oreo Gate” is the viral Instagram mom-drama/storytime series that’s blowing up right now in August 2026. It’s not actually about the Oreo cookie itself—it’s about a school-parent WhatsApp group and an increasingly ridiculous dispute involving Oreos. 😂 The story is being told in a series of Instagram reels by @ashleighjamz, and people are following along like it’s a TV show. There are now multiple parts, with commenters referring to it as “Oreo-gate” and speculating about the people involved.  🍪 So what happened? The basic setup is a back-to-school situation involving moms, kids, a school WhatsApp chat, and Oreos. One mom—referred to as Michelle in the story—apparently takes issue with something involving Oreos and the situation spirals into a much bigger interpersonal drama. What makes it so entertaining is that it has all the ingredients of classic “mean moms” drama:  A school-parent group chat  Moms taking sides  A seemingly tiny issue becoming a HUGE issue  Passive-aggressive messages  Friendship dynamics  Kids getting caught in the middle  People wondering, “Are you seriously this upset about Oreos?” 😂 The creator has been releasing it in multiple parts, and the latest posts are still generating thousands of comments. One recent update was labeled Part 5, with another post referencing Part 7.  And interestingly, people are already debating whether the story is completely real or partly exaggerated/created for social media.  Kim Kardashians's Baseball Moms show Team Moms: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/baseball/2026/08/20/kim-kardashian-to-produce-teen-moms-baseball-on-paramount/91380696007/ Picky Pads on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=picky+pad&crid=AMULAYRYMZIJ&sprefix=picky+pad%2Caps%2C184&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 And if you enjoyed this episode, please follow MomsWork Podcast, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find MomsWork Podcast on Instagram and Facebook at @MomsWorkPodcast. Thanks for listening—and remember: healthy friendships are built on kindness, respect, boundaries, and authenticity.

Send us Fan Mail MomsWork Podcast Show Notes: The Sandwich Generation with Andrea Davis Episode Summary What happens when you're raising children while also caring for aging parents? More and more families are finding themselves in this stage of life known as the Sandwich Generation—caught between the demands of parenting and the responsibilities that come with supporting older loved ones. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Andrea Davis, a wife, mom of two, and Main Line realtor, to discuss what it really looks like to care for multiple generations at the same time. Andrea shares her family's personal journey, the emotional challenges that come with balancing everyone's needs, and the unexpected gifts that can emerge during this season of life. Together, Kristin and Andrea explore the complicated emotions many caregivers experience, including guilt, gratitude, sadness, worry, and joy. They also discuss the importance of preserving family stories, creating meaningful memories, and modeling compassion for the next generation. Whether you're currently caring for aging parents, anticipate doing so in the future, or simply want to better understand this chapter of life, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and a reminder that you're not alone. In This Episode, We Discuss: What it means to be part of the Sandwich Generation Balancing the needs of children and aging parents The emotional weight of caring for two generations at once How caregiving changes family relationships The lessons children learn by watching adults care for their grandparents Important conversations families should have before a crisis occurs Finding gratitude and joy in an often-challenging season About Andrea Davis Andrea Davis is a Main Line realtor known for seeing potential where others don't. After renovating four homes and taking on a fifth project with her husband, Dan, she's built a career around transforming overlooked properties into something special. Before entering real estate, Andrea worked in art conservation at Harvard University Libraries and spent more than a decade in public health, helping protect firefighters and paramedics. Today, her personal and professional experiences give her a unique perspective on family, caregiving, and navigating life's transitions. Mentioned in the Episode:  Sandwich, a novel: https://www.amazon.com/Sandwich-Novel-Catherine-Newman/dp/0063345161  Connect with Andrea: Instagram: @mainline_homebody Website (Compass Realty, Andrea's Page): https://www.compass.com/agents/andrea-davis/ Enjoying MomsWork Podcast? Please subscribe, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps more families discover these important conversations. You can also follow @MomsWorkPodcast on social media and subscribe on YouTube so you never miss an episode. Next Up: Season 2 begins September 1!

Send us Fan Mail Bringing home a new baby is often portrayed as one of life's happiest moments—but what happens after the visitors leave, the meals stop coming, and the reality of postpartum sets in? In this episode of the MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Brittany Harris—wife, mom of five, and nurse practitioner—to have the honest conversation every parent needs to hear. Drawing from both her professional experience caring for women during the postpartum period and her own journey through motherhood, Brittany shares practical advice, reassurance, and hope for families navigating one of life's biggest transitions. Together, they discuss what postpartum really looks like beyond the six-week checkup, including the physical recovery, emotional ups and downs, and mental health challenges that so many new moms experience—but few feel comfortable talking about. They cover topics including: What the postpartum period really is—and why it lasts much longer than many people realizeThe difference between the "baby blues," postpartum depression, and postpartum anxietyIntrusive thoughts: why they're more common than you think and when to seek helpPostpartum rage and the emotional overload many moms experienceThe realities of breastfeeding, hormones, weight changes, and body imagePhysical recovery after birth, sleep deprivation, nutrition, hydration, and returning to exerciseHow spouses, partners, grandparents, and friends can truly support a new momWarning signs that it's time to reach out to a healthcare providerWhy therapy, medication, support groups, and asking for help are signs of strength—not failureWhether you're expecting your first baby, in the middle of postpartum recovery, or supporting someone who recently welcomed a child, this conversation is filled with compassion, expert guidance, and practical takeaways that every family can benefit from. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend or loved one who could use the reminder that caring for moms is just as important as caring for babies. Connect with MomsWork Podcast: 📱 Instagram & Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcast 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Connect with Brittany Harris @hernewchapterhealth on Instagram Mentioned in the podcast Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299  Bilateral Music Stimulation Station (many to choose from on youtube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqMGI2WO2O0

Send us Fan Mail From Layoff to Leap: Building a Business While Raising Two Babies One Year Apart with Abbie O'BrienSometimes life's biggest setbacks become the very thing that launches us into something even better. This week on MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Abbie O'Brien—wife, mom of two daughters born just 12 months and three weeks apart, founder of The Branding Den, former Creative Director, and part-time yoga instructor. After spending nearly a decade building a successful career in the franchising industry, Abbie's world changed overnight when she was unexpectedly laid off during the pandemic while navigating new motherhood. Instead of returning to the corporate world, she took a leap of faith, trusted her instincts, and built her own branding and marketing agency from the ground up. In this inspiring conversation, Abbie shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the power of building authentic relationships, how AI is changing the marketing landscape, and what it really takes to create a memorable brand. She also opens up about motherhood, including the unique experience of raising two daughters born just over a year apart, learning to ask for help, and embracing the beautiful chaos of parenting little ones so close in age. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business, navigating an unexpected career change, or simply trying to balance work and family, Abbie's story is filled with encouragement, practical advice, and the reminder that sometimes our greatest opportunities come disguised as setbacks. In This Episode, We Discuss: How an unexpected layoff during the pandemic changed the course of Abbie's careerThe story behind founding The Branding DenWhat makes a brand memorable beyond having a beautiful logoCommon branding and marketing mistakes businesses makeWhy networking and relationships are essential for business growthHow AI is transforming branding, marketing, and entrepreneurshipCurrent marketing trends every business owner should knowRaising two daughters born just 12 months and three weeks apartThe challenges—and unexpected joys—of having children so close in ageLearning to accept help and lean on a support systemBalancing business ownership, motherhood, and self-careQuick-fire questions and parenting wisdomAbbie's journey is a powerful reminder that resilience, creativity, and a willingness to take a chance on yourself can lead to incredible opportunities. Her story proves that while life doesn't always go according to plan, it often leads us exactly where we're meant to be. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen. Share this episode with a parent, entrepreneur, or friend who could use a little encouragement today. Connect with MomsWork Podcast: Instagram: @MomsWorkPodcast Facebook: MomsWork Podcast YouTube: @MomsWorkPodcast Apple Podcasts: MomsWork Podcast Mentioned in the show:  The Branding Den: https://www.thebrandingden.com/ Facebook: The Branding Den Instagram: @thebrandingden Jenna Bush Hager's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/open-book-with-jenna/id1707218732 The Rabbit Hole Conshocken:  https://therabbitholeconshy.com/

Send us Fan Mail Summer is here, and that means family days at the pool, beach, lake, and splash pad! But while water creates some of our favorite memories, it also comes with an important responsibility—keeping our kids safe. This week on MomsWork, Kristin sits down with Erica Kowal, wife, mom, and owner of Big Blue Swim School in Paoli, Pennsylvania, for a conversation every parent should hear. Erica shares why learning to swim is one of the most important life skills a child can have, practical tips for drowning prevention, and how parents can help children build confidence in and around the water. Beyond swim safety, Kristin and Erica dive into everything that makes summer water days easier and more enjoyable—from must-have beach and pool gear to favorite snacks, packing hacks, games, and the little things that help families spend less time stressing and more time making memories. Whether your family spends weekends by the pool, vacations at the beach, or simply loves soaking up the summer sun, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you enjoy every splash safely. In this episode, you'll learn: Why swim lessons are a life-saving investmentEssential water safety and drowning prevention tips every parent should knowHow to help nervous children become more confident swimmersSimple ways to practice swim skills outside of lessonsErica's favorite pool and beach essentialsEasy snacks, games, and organization hacks for water daysHow to create meaningful summer memories without chasing perfectionWhether you're packing for your next beach vacation or heading to your neighborhood pool, this episode is full of helpful ideas to make your family's summer safer, simpler, and more fun. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent who could use these tips. And don't forget to follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more conversations that support parents through every stage of work and family life. Mentioned in the show: Instagram  @ericakowal @bigblueswim_paoli @bigblueswim_cherryhill @bigblueswim_fairlesshills @bigblueswim_springfielddelco Facebook @bigblueswimschoolpaoli @bigblueswimschoolfairlesshills @bigblueswimschoolcherryhill @bigblueswimschoolspringfielddelco Shopping Links Swimsuits for moms: https://kiavaclothing.com Sunglasses: https://goodr.com Hanna Andersson bathing suits: https://www.hannaandersson.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorB_SBEU8HeCgWMlKmYvMATklvasS02Ivr5p5u-pwC6iFB5fx3r Costa Rica Rick: https://montauksurfandsports.com/products/surfer-dudes-costa-rica-rick?srsltid=AfmBOoqANr3lUA0t48F7qsEuGzkqkHfYGGPW3RhuS9_8aOwrVJJMRZgY  Dock and BayTowels: https://us.dockandbay.com/ Native Shoes- https://www.nativeshoes.com/ Sun Bum Sunscreen: https://www.sunbum.com/  Trader Joe's Face Sunscreen: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/products/pdp/daily-facial-sunscreen-spf-40-073568

Send us Fan Mail More Than Melissa & Doug Toys: A Conversation with Melissa Bernstein On this episode of MomsWork, Kristin sits down with Melissa Bernstein, co-founder of the beloved children’s toy company Melissa & Doug, mom of six, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Lifelines. For generations of families, Melissa & Doug toys have encouraged creativity, imagination, and meaningful hands-on play. Melissa shares the story behind starting the company with her husband, Doug, in the late 1980s, the risks they took in the early days, and how they built a brand that became a treasured part of childhood for so many families. Melissa also opens up about the realities behind the success story. While raising six children and growing a major business, she was navigating internal struggles that were not always visible from the outside. She shares her experience with existential depression, what she wishes more people understood about quiet mental-health struggles, and why asking for help and finding connection can be so important. Kristin and Melissa also talk about Lifelines, Melissa’s newer company focused on helping people explore purpose, hope, emotional well-being, and meaningful connection. This conversation is a thoughtful reminder that success and struggle can exist at the same time—and that a meaningful life is about much more than what others can see from the outside. In this episode, Kristin and Melissa discuss: The early days of building Melissa & DougRaising six children while growing a businessWhy imaginative, open-ended play still mattersThe values that helped shape the Melissa & Doug brandNavigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal challengesMelissa’s experience with existential depressionThe importance of talking openly about mental healthThe inspiration behind Lifelines and Melissa’s work todayWhat success and purpose look like in this season of lifeMentioned in the episode:  Lifelines, Melissa and Doug's newest company: Lifelines Melissa's Memoir: Lifelines by Melissa Bernstein Jalen Brunson : https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3934672/jalen-brunson Emmy Van Deurzen: https://www.emmyvandeurzen.com/ Good Life Project with Jonathan Fields: https://www.goodlifeproject.com/podcast/  Follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations about parenting, work, family, and the many roles we hold every day.

Send us Fan Mail Raising Grounded Girls: Fatherhood, Family Values & Staying Connected with Ashwin RajanWhat does it take to raise kind, confident, grounded daughters in today's world? In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with filmmaker, producer, husband, and father of two middle school girls, Ash Rajan, for an honest conversation about fatherhood, family values, and staying connected—even when work takes you away from home. Ash shares how he and his wife intentionally raise daughters who are humble, hardworking, and deeply connected to their family, culture, and traditions. Together, they discuss the unique challenges of parenting during the middle school years, the importance of modeling values through everyday actions, and how meaningful relationships can thrive despite demanding careers and frequent travel. Whether you're raising daughters, navigating busy family schedules, or simply hoping to build stronger connections at home, this conversation is full of thoughtful reminders that the little moments matter most. In this episode, we discuss: Raising grounded, kind, and confident girlsHelping children stay connected to family, culture, and traditionsParenting through the middle school yearsModeling humility, gratitude, and a strong work ethicBalancing a demanding career with family lifeStaying emotionally connected while traveling for workThe everyday moments that shape lifelong relationshipsWhat Ash hopes his daughters will carry into adulthoodAshwin Rajan's Bio: Ashwin Rajan Bio  Remain the Movie (February 2027): Remain the Movie  M. Night Shyamalan: M. Night Shymalan  Bougie Hippie: Bougie Hippie  If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen. Your support helps more moms and dads discover these meaningful conversations. You can also connect with MomsWork Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for episode clips, parenting conversations, and updates on upcoming guests.

Send us Fan Mail MomsWork Podcast Episode 29From Biology to Buttercream with Lynn April of Fresh April Flours Sometimes the path you think you're meant to take isn't the one you stay on. This week on MomsWork, Kristin is joined by Lynn April, the creator behind Fresh April Flours. A trained biologist turned self-taught baker, cookbook author, personal trainer, and entrepreneur, Lynn shares how a simple cake decorating class sparked an entirely new career. Together, Kristin and Lynn talk about what it takes to pivot professionally, build a business from scratch, and trust yourself enough to follow a passion—even when it looks completely different from the plan. They also dive into a topic every parent is thinking about this time of year: summer break. From camps and day trips to library programs, kitchen projects, and balancing work while the kids are home, they share practical ideas for making the most of the season without feeling like you have to do it all. In this episode, we discuss: Lynn's journey from biology to bakingBuilding the Fresh April Flours brandFinding the confidence to make a major career changeLessons learned from turning a hobby into a businessKeeping kids busy during summer breakBalancing work and family when routines changeFavorite summer traditions, meals, and family funWhether you're dreaming of a career change, looking for summer inspiration, or simply trying to make these long days a little easier, this episode is full of encouragement and practical ideas for parents. Connect with Lynn April Website: https://freshaprilflours.com/  Instagram: @freshaprilfloursLinks to things mentioned in the episode Travel though France with Lynn: Travel Through France with LynnCreek Splashing at Shaw's Bridge Park: Shaw's Bridge ParkThe Biscuit Lady: Biscuits!Chester County Library System: Libraries galore!Ina Garten:  Barefoot ContessaBe My Guest with Ina Garten on The Food Network: TV ShowBe Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten: Read the Book!If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow, rate, and review MomsWork. Your support helps more parents discover the show, and we'd love it if you'd share this episode with a friend who's navigating work, family, or a new season of life.

Send us Fan Mail Episode 28: Family Travel Tips That Work with Stephen Weinrich  Family vacations create some of our favorite memories—but let's be honest, they can also be a lot of work. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin welcomes back her husband, Stephen Weinrich, to share practical tips for planning and enjoying family vacations with less stress and more fun. Together, they discuss everything from choosing the right destination and creating a balanced itinerary to managing expectations, handling unexpected hiccups, and making meaningful memories once you arrive. Whether you're planning a beach getaway, road trip, amusement park adventure, or sightseeing vacation, this conversation is full of realistic advice that parents can put into practice right away. In this episode, we discuss: Choosing a destination that works for the whole familyBalancing activities with downtimeAvoiding common vacation planning mistakesSaving money without sacrificing the experienceHelping kids take ownership in planning the tripSetting realistic expectations before you leaveEstablishing simple routines while on vacationHandling tired, overstimulated kids with flexibilityBeach, amusement park, and sightseeing tipsCreating unforgettable family memories without spending a fortuneWhy the little moments often become the most meaningfulMost importantly, Kristin and Stephen reflect on why family vacations aren't about perfection—they're about spending intentional time together, building traditions, and creating stories your children will remember for years to come. Whether you're packing for your next adventure or simply dreaming about one, this episode will help you travel a little smarter and enjoy the journey even more. If you enjoyed today's episode, please follow, rate, review, and share MomsWork Podcast. Your support helps us reach more parents and families. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook @MomsWorkPodcast for more conversations about parenting, work, family life, and everything in between.

Send us Fan Mail Across the Pond: A Family's Journey to England with Amy Bencher What happens when your family gets the opportunity to move across the world? In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Amy Bencher—wife, mom, professor, and local university leader—as her family prepares for a major international move from the United States to England. Amy shares the excitement, uncertainty, and countless decisions that come with relocating a family overseas. From career opportunities and family conversations to logistics, emotions, and helping children navigate change, this episode offers an honest look at a life transition that is equal parts thrilling and overwhelming. In this episode, we discuss: ✈️ How Amy's family learned they might be moving to England 🏡 The decision-making process behind an international relocation 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How parents and children process big life changes differently 📦 The hidden logistics of moving a family abroad 💭 Fears, hesitations, and unexpected emotions that come with leaving home 🌍 What Amy is most excited about as her family begins this new chapter ❤️ The importance of flexibility, resilience, and embracing uncertainty As always, we also kick off the conversation with our signature icebreakers, including Amy's most challenging working-mom moment and the biggest compliment someone can give her. Whether you're considering a major move, facing a family transition, or simply curious about life abroad, Amy's story is a reminder that growth often begins just outside our comfort zone. Follow MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode featuring inspiring moms, community leaders, and professionals navigating the intersection of work and family.