Get Mom Ready Podcast

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comSomehow, it’s been almost a full year of Get Mom Ready.Forty-five episodes. More than 2,500 downloads. A lot of conversations about motherhood, identity, work, friendship, ambition, limits, and the strange things contractors say while standing in your kitchen.We started this because we wanted a place where moms could feel a little less alone. What we didn’t expect was how much we would need that space too.In this episode, we’re looking back at what this year has taught us, sharing our roses and thorns, and talking honestly about why we’re pressing pause on our weekly rhythm for a while.Community Can Show Up Where You Least Expect ItOne of the greatest gifts of Get Mom Ready has been the weekly community it created for the four of us.Entrepreneurship, private practice, remote work, and motherhood can all be isolating in their own ways. Having a place to show up every week, talk through what was happening, laugh, process, and occasionally admit that our children were annoying us became an anchor.It also reminded us that support doesn’t always have to look like someone giving you an answer.Sometimes it looks like being able to say the true thing without being fixed.Sometimes it’s hearing another mom’s story and quietly taking one sentence with you into the rest of your week.Sometimes it’s having people in your life who remind you that you’re allowed to be fully human.Take this with you:You may not need more advice right now. You may just need a place where you don’t have to perform, explain yourself, or have everything figured out.Pay attention to the relationships where you feel more like yourself after you leave. Those spaces matter.You’re Allowed to Try Something Before You Know Exactly What It IsWe’ve spent a lot of time behind the scenes asking what Get Mom Ready really is.Is it a podcast? A community? A newsletter? A place for practical tools? A conversation about identity? A way to help moms build lives that reflect what they actually value?The answer may be all of those things, but figuring out how to communicate that clearly has been harder than we expected.And maybe that’s part of the lesson.You don’t always need a perfect strategy before beginning something meaningful. Sometimes you start because you believe there’s a need, then learn by paying attention.You try the course. You try the membership. You make it free. You change the format. You listen. You adjust. You admit what isn’t working.Trying something new doesn’t mean you have to keep doing it the same way forever.Take this with you:You’re allowed to experiment.You’re allowed to change your mind.You’re allowed to discover that the original plan isn’t the right plan.That doesn’t mean the effort was wasted. It means you learned something you couldn’t have learned from standing still.Changing Your Mind Is a Sign of GrowthOne of the most meaningful things about recording these conversations has been the ability to look back and hear how much we’ve changed.The podcast became a kind of video diary. It captured what we believed, what we were wrestling with, and how we were learning to build our lives around what matters to us.We often think strength means being certain, staying consistent, and never backing down.But real growth requires enough humility to say, “I see this differently now.”The goal was never to give moms one correct way to work, parent, rest, build a business, use technology, or structure their lives.The goal was to become more grounded in who we are, more honest about what we value, and more confident living from that place.Take this with you:You’re not failing because you’ve changed.You’re growing.The version of you who made a decision last year was working with what she knew then. You’re allowed to make a different decision with what you know now.Permission to Be HumanA recurring rose from this year was the freedom to be a real person in a space that was still professional.We backtracked. We used too many filler words. Kids woke up in the middle of recordings. We changed our minds in real time. We said things imperfectly and clarified what we meant.And the world kept spinning.There is so much pressure to be polished before we’re visible, especially online. But being thoughtful and being human are not opposites.You can be credible and still be learning.You can be professional and still laugh too loudly.You can be good at your work and still have limits.You can care deeply about something and still need to pause.The Tension Between What Matters and What’s PossibleThis is the hard part.We still believe in Get Mom Ready. We still feel like there’s something here. We still believe moms need spaces that aren’t prescriptive, overly polished, or built around telling them how to do more.But there are also seasons when you have to be honest about your capacity.For Holly, the word for this year has been simplify. That has meant making difficult decisions about where her time, energy, and resources need to go right now.So we’re pausing the expectation of publishing a new podcast episode and article every week.This isn’t a dramatic goodbye. You may still hear from us when we have something we really want to say. But for now, we’re releasing ourselves from the pressure of maintaining the weekly cadence while we discern what the next version of Get Mom Ready could become.Take this with you:Pausing isn’t the same as quitting.Simplifying isn’t the same as giving up.Sometimes the most honest way to care for something is to stop forcing it to grow in a season when you don’t have the margin to tend it well.Help Us Shape What Comes NextIf you’ve listened to Get Mom Ready, we would genuinely love to hear from you.* Who are you?* Why did you listen?* What conversations stayed with you?* What felt helpful?* What did you wish we did differently?* What would you want more of if Get Mom Ready returns in a new form?* Your voice matters more than you may realize, and your feedback will help us understand what this community could become next.Let’s Keep in TouchSubscribe to Get Mom ReadyVisit GetMomReady.com to subscribe, read past show notes, leave a comment, and join the conversation.Follow us on InstagramFind us at @getmomready and send us a DM. Tell us who you are, why you listen, and what you want more of.Comment on the episodeLeave a comment wherever you’re listening, including Spotify or Substack. We read them.Email usSend your thoughts, feedback, questions, or future episode ideas to [email protected] up on past episodesListen to the full Get Mom Ready archive wherever you get your podcasts, or find every episode at GetMomReady.com.To every mom who listened, shared an episode, sent a message, left a comment, or quietly carried something from one of these conversations into her week, thank you.We’re deeply grateful you’re on this journey with us!Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comThe Life You Were Dreaming AboutThis week, we got to talk with writer, consultant, and working mom Hilary Sutton, and the whole conversation kept coming back to one question:What did you really want before life got so loud?The dream list from 14 years agoHilary recently found a list of dreams she had written 14 years ago, before marriage, before kids, before so many of the responsibilities that now fill her days.And the beautiful thing was that the list wasn’t full of job titles or income goals or some hyper-specific version of success.It was about building a life.A home. A safe place for her kids. A family that felt loved. Creative work. Meaningful work. Vacations. Church. Living near people she loves.You can read Hilary’s full piece here (warning, you’ll want to start journaling your own reflections and dreams after readying it!) : I found a list of dreams I made 14 years ago.Maybe you’re not behindFor the moms who are wired to keep moving, keep building, keep improving, keep asking what’s next, it can be hard to stop long enough to notice what’s already here.Hilary described herself as someone who is always thinking ahead.There is always another thing to do, another version of ourselves we’re trying to become, another goal that feels like it should already be further along.But sometimes looking back gives us a better reality check than looking forward.Maybe the life you’re living right now has pieces of the life you used to dream about. Maybe the ordinary things that feel so heavy in this season are also evidence of prayers answered, work invested, and dreams slowly taking shape.Not perfectly and not without chaos, but still very much happening.The middle years are loudOne thing said in the conversation really stuck with us: in these middle years, it’s easy to forget what we really want because there are so many tiny responsibilities that actually do matter.The mortgage matters. The camp schedule matters. The food on the table matters. The work deadlines matter. The kids’ hearts matter.It ALL matters.But when everything matters, it can be hard to remember what matters most.That’s why this conversation was an important invitation to pause for a second and ask:* What am I actually building here?* What do I want this season to feel like?* What am I trying to protect, not just produce?Imagination is not just for our kidsWe also talked about imagination, and not in a Pinterest-perfect playroom kind of way.Hilary shared that when kids feel safe, they are free to dream, play, create, and imagine. And that felt like one of those parenting truths that also applies to us.When we feel safe, we can dream too.When we’re not constantly bracing, proving, managing, and over-functioning, we can remember that the future is not just a list of responsibilities. It can still hold possibility.And sometimes, the most grounded thing we can do as moms is make space to imagine again.Listen to the full conversationIn this episode, we talk with Hilary Sutton about working motherhood, planning without trying to control everything, choosing what deserves your yes, raising imaginative kids, and remembering that this season is not a reflection of your worth as a mom.You can follow Hilary’s writing on The Motherload, where she writes about work, motherhood, creativity, and the honest middle of it all.For the mom asking, “What do I actually want?”If this episode stirred something in you, especially around what you really want in this season of motherhood, we’d love to support you.Get Mom Ready coaching is for the mom who is carrying a lot and needs space to sort through what’s working, what’s not, and what she actually needs next.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comYou know that feeling when your work brain is carrying layoffs, strategy shifts, inbox fires, team decisions, and approximately 47 tabs of pressure…and then you’re supposed to close your laptop and immediately become the calm, joyful bedtime mom?Same.In this episode, Holly sits down with Lindsey Swedick, a startup executive, brand marketer, and mom of two, for a conversation about work, motherhood, burnout, identity, marriage, and the strange emotional whiplash of leading at work and leading at home.Lindsey’s career has taken her from an anti-trafficking NGO in India to brands like FEED, LOLA, Coterie, Calibrate, and now Perelel Health. But this conversation isn’t just about an impressive resume. It’s about what happens when your work has always been tied to purpose, and then motherhood changes the way you understand ambition, capacity, and what actually matters.When the Work That Once Lit You Up Starts Burning You OutLindsey shared about the season that finally pushed her to step away from corporate life and start consulting.It wasn’t because she stopped loving work. It was because the pace, pressure, constant pivots, and emotional weight of leadership became too much.She was leading brand and communications during a volatile season, navigating layoffs, shifting market demands, and internal messaging while also raising two little kids. And somewhere in the middle of all of that, the spark that had always driven her work started to fade.That part felt so relatable.Because sometimes burnout doesn’t look like quitting on your ambition. Sometimes it looks like realizing you can’t keep giving every part of yourself to a job and still have anything left for your actual life.You Can Try Something New Without It Being ForeverOne of the most refreshing parts of Lindsey’s story was how she talked about career pivots.Earlier in her career, every move felt massive. Like each decision was somehow deciding the entire rest of her life.But with time, motherhood, and a few hard seasons behind her, she started to see it differently.You can try something.You can change your mind.You can do something for six months and reassess.You can make a move because it’s what you need for this season, not because it has to define every season after it.Honestly, that feels like a word for so many moms who are trying to figure out what work is supposed to look like now.This Is Just a Hard SeasonWhen Holly asked Lindsey what she does differently now as a working mom, Lindsey didn’t offer a perfect six-step system or a magical productivity hack.She said it’s more of a mental reframe.This is a hard season.Not forever. Not her whole identity. Not proof that she’s failing.Just a hard season.And whew. That’ll preach.Because some days you feel like you’re failing as a mom, a leader, a wife, a friend, and a human person who would maybe enjoy drinking water at some point. And then the next day, you feel like maybe you’re doing okay.Both can be true.The season can be hard, and you can still be doing a really good job.Your Job Is Not Your Whole IdentityLindsey also named something that so many high-achieving moms know deep down but still have to relearn over and over again:It’s just a job.That doesn’t mean the work doesn’t matter. It doesn’t mean you don’t care. It doesn’t mean you don’t give your best.But it does mean your company is not your identity.Your performance review is not your worth.Your title is not your whole story.The thing keeping you up tonight probably won’t be the thing you remember in ten years.Motherhood has a way of forcing that reordering. Not because work stops mattering, but because suddenly your life is bigger than what happens in a meeting.The Sunday Meeting That Might Save Your WeekOne of the most practical takeaways from this episode was Lindsey and her husband Nick’s Sunday night meeting.After the kids go to bed, they sit down with calendars, laptops, mail, invites, schedules, and anything else they need to sort through. They talk through the week ahead, the month ahead, and even the next six months.They also use that time to talk about their kids, family rhythms, childcare, school, work travel, and anything that could otherwise become resentment by Thursday.Is this wildly glamorous? No.Could snacks improve it? Absolutely.But the point is this: they have a rhythm that helps them enter Monday with less chaos and fewer assumptions.And for moms, fewer assumptions can be a love language.Maybe It’s Not Mom GuiltThis was one of the biggest moments in the conversation.Lindsey shared a reframe she heard from Dr. Becky: guilt is when your actions don’t align with your values.So when we call everything “mom guilt,” it’s worth pausing to ask: is this actually guilt?Because for Lindsey, working hard, leading well, and modeling ambition for her kids does align with her values. She wants her kids to see a mom who can do hard things, lead in business, and lead in her family.So maybe the feeling isn’t guilt.Maybe it’s stress.Maybe it’s exhaustion.Maybe it’s anxiety.Maybe it’s sadness.Maybe it’s taking on emotions that were never yours to carry.That distinction matters.Because if something aligns with your values, you may not need to shame yourself for it. You may just need to name what you’re actually feeling and give yourself a little compassion.You’re Not the Only One Holding Two WorldsThere’s a loneliness that can come with being a mom in leadership.You can make big decisions all day, carry the emotional weight of your team, disagree with a decision and still have to execute it, write the layoff messaging, lead with confidence, and then somehow be expected to walk into bath time like your nervous system is totally fine.It’s a lot.And sometimes, it feels like no one fully understands the pressure of both worlds.But that’s part of why this conversation matters.Because if you’ve ever closed your laptop and thought, “No one will ever know how hard this day was,” this episode is your reminder:You’re not doing it wrong.You’re not the only one.And you really are doing something impressive.One day at a time.Links from This EpisodeConnect with Lindsey Swedick on LinkedIn.Learn more about Perelel Health or follow along on Instagram.Check out Perelel’s Summer Glo hydration powder and protein powder, both mentioned in this episode.Subscribe to Get Mom Ready at GetMomReady.com so you never miss an episode or our Sunday Reset, our newsletter helping you avoid the Sunday Scaries and start the week fresh instead.If You’re in a Season of BurnoutIf this conversation hit close to home and you’re in a season of burnout, overwhelm, or “I cannot keep doing it like this,” you don’t have to sort through it alone.Get Mom Ready coaching is here to help you take a breath, name what’s actually going on, and figure out what support, boundaries, or next steps might help you move forward with more clarity.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comFor the mom who was told she could have it allYou know that feeling when you technically have a great life, a good job, a flexible setup, a supportive partner, healthy kids, and you’re still staring at the ceiling thinking, “Wait… why does this still feel so impossible?”This week, Holly and Anna sat down with Sam Storz, a corporate working mom, content creator, Bravo girlie, and the kind of person who makes you feel like you’re texting a friend from the school pickup line.Sam shared so honestly about her path to motherhood, including an unexpected pregnancy, a missed miscarriage, the anxiety of pregnancy after loss, and the way motherhood changed what she thought she wanted from her career, her time, and her life.And whew. This one is for the moms who were raised to hustle, achieve, earn, build, prove, provide, and then became moms and thought…“Okay, but what if I don’t want to give my whole life to work anymore?”When work still matters, but it’s not first anymoreSam said something that felt so familiar: she is still a high performer. She still cares about doing excellent work. She still wants to show up well.But motherhood shifted the order.Now, she wants to do the best job she can as a mom first, and work comes behind that.That doesn’t mean work is meaningless. It doesn’t mean ambition disappeared. It just means the old “grind at all costs” version of success does not fit the same way anymore.And for a lot of moms, especially moms who have built careers and carry real financial responsibility for their families, that shift can feel complicated. Because it’s not always as simple as “just quit your job.” Sometimes you love parts of your work. Sometimes your family needs your income. Sometimes both things are true at the same time.The math does not mathOne of the biggest themes of this conversation was the impossible equation so many working moms are trying to solve.Morning shift with the kids.Work shift during the day.Evening shift with dinner, baths, bedtime, tantrums, lunches, laundry, and the 37 tiny tasks nobody sees.And then maybe, if the stars align, one hour at night to sit with your husband, text a friend back, or watch something on Bravo that requires absolutely zero brain cells.Sam put words to what so many moms are feeling: We were told we could have it all, but nobody really explained that we might not be able to have it all at the exact same time, at the exact same intensity, without burning out.Yeah, the math does not math.The village is not optionalSam talked about how much she depends on mom friends in the same season and moms a season or two ahead.Because sometimes you need someone to say, “This won’t last forever.”And sometimes you need someone to say, “No, you’re right. This phase is actually insane.”Motherhood can feel weirdly isolating even when you have friends, because everyone is also drowning in their own daycare drop-offs, potty training attempts, work calls, bedtime battles, and snack negotiations. That’s why community matters so much. Not because it magically fixes everything, but because it reminds you that you are not failing. You are human. You are carrying a lot. And you were never meant to do this alone.Work flexibility is not a perk, it’s survivalThe recruiter in Sam came out in the best way when she reminded moms that interviews go both ways.Yes, you are being interviewed by a company. But you are also interviewing them.If you are in a season where kids get sick, daycare closes, appointments pop up, and life refuses to operate on a clean calendar, flexibility is not some cute little bonus. It is survival.Sam’s encouragement to working moms: know your worth. Moms are already project managing entire households while showing up at work. That kind of capacity, adaptability, and problem-solving matters.And if a workplace cannot understand that, it is fair to ask whether that workplace can actually support the life you are living right now.We can love our kids and still need a minuteThis conversation also got into the very real, very unfiltered parts of motherhood: potty training, crib climbing, big boy beds, bedtime chaos, daycare drop-offs, and the kind of mental load that makes you want to scream when someone says, “Just tell me what you need me to do.”Because yes, we love our people.And also, sometimes we do not want to be the household project manager, bedtime negotiator, snack coordinator, emotional thermostat, laundry tracker, and keeper of all invisible things.Sam and her husband don’t have a perfect chart or monthly family meeting system. They communicate as they go, try to pick up the slack for each other, and keep naming what’s hard before resentment has time to build a second home in the living room.Which feels refreshingly realistic.A few things we loved from SamSam reminded us that this season is not forever, even when it feels never-ending.She reminded us that asking for help is not failure.She reminded us that you can be a great mom and a great employee and still not be able to give 100% to everything at the same time.She reminded us that some seasons are for grinding, and some seasons are for being present, simplifying, protecting your capacity, and letting “good enough” be a legitimate strategy.And she reminded us that sometimes the most helpful thing we can say out loud is simply: this is not working.Feeling this tension right now?If this conversation hit a little too close to home, we’d love to walk with you. Get Mom Ready coaching is for the mom who is trying to figure out who she is in the middle of work, motherhood, marriage, identity, overwhelm, and all the in-between. You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Links from this episode & Sam’s skincare routineFollow Sam on Instagram: @itssamstorzMorning:* Dampen a clean skincare club towel with filtered water & wipe over my face - no facewash Clean Towels | Premium Face Towels for Clean, Clear Skin – Clean Skin Club *working to get a discount code for your listeners** A few spritzes of peptide spray on my face (and I rub in a bit with my hands) BLUE PEPTIDE SPRAY – Young Goose* a pump and a 1/2 of this advanced retinal serum Osmosis Renew MD Advanced – Advanced Retinal Serum (this is my fave product, if you could only get one of these products, I’d choose this!)* a pump and a 1/2 of stemfactor growth serum (this is VERY expensive so I only order twice a year and so I dont use it every day) Osmosis StemFactor - Growth Factor Serum* a pump and a half of moisturizer Young Goose Youth Daily – Moisturizing Cream* SPF - elta MD https://amzn.to/4aDPSavNight:* Once a week - Osmosis Polish MD Advanced – Cranberry Enzyme Mask holy grail product for me!* Cleanser: ADAPTOGENIC CLEANSER – Young Goose* Take a pump or two of cleanser and rub vigorously into my skin, dry, no water* dampen my hands with water and take fingers and rub into my face, creating a bit of foam* take my cleansing cloth and wipe my face* then my same routine as morning - peptide spray, serums and end with moisturizer C.A.R.E. | NEW FORMULA – Young Goose* and if you are looking for an extra - EYEC.A.R.E. – Young GooseThese products are expensive unfortunately and if someone could only afford to start with 1 or 2, I would recommend the Advanced Retinal serum (I felt like I saw that biggest difference right away with that and the Cranberry enzyme mask - you will notice an immediate difference and glow with your skin).. third would be the youth daily moisturizing cream. I wish I had a discount code for people but if you sign up for a subscription you can get it cheaper and then you can always cancel anytime- little hack there!MAKEUP:Toups & co is a woman founded, family run, small non-toxic makeup brand based in Alabama! I am OBSESSED with them! Their makeup is soooo good and I feel great knowing that I am putting products on my skin that won’t cause me harmDiscount code: SAMSTORZ for 15% off: https://toupsandco.com/SAMSTORZThe products I personally use for a quick 5 min mom makeup routine* Primer (you forget how much of a difference this makes until you actually put it on!) Flawless Face Primer – Toups and Co Organics* tiny bit of concealer under my eyes (to make people think I slept more than 5 hours) Concealer – Toups and Co Organics* tiny bit of foundation - LOVE that you can order sample packs for cheap to find your perfect summer/winter colors! Literally $6.80 with my discount code Sample Set - Liquid Foundation – Toups and Co Organics* bronzer for a little contour - Bronzer – Toups and Co Organics* love this cream cheek tint - Cream Cheek Tint – Toups and Co Organics* I also love their eye liner, brow pencil and eye shadows but these aren’t something I’m using everyday for daycare drop offs* the only makeup I use that is NOT toups and co is mascara - gotta keep it real, I do NOT love their mascara, so I use https://amzn.to/4wnbcJASubscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comYou know that moment when everyone needs something from you at the exact same time and your entire family is looking at you like you were born with eight arms?Emily Busby knows that feeling well.One Memorial Day, she was in the kitchen trying to get food ready while her kids were barking orders from every direction. Her husband walked in from grilling and said, “Mommy has two hands. Give her a second. She’s not an octopus.”And then they realized…wait. That’s a book.Mommy’s Not an OctopusEmily is the author of Mommy’s Not an Octopus, a children’s book that started as a joke but became something much deeper.It’s funny for kids, but it’s also a love letter to moms.Because somewhere along the way, a lot of us absorbed the idea that good moms just figure it out. We keep going. We carry the mental load. We anticipate everyone’s needs. We become the snack coordinator, schedule keeper, emotional support animal, laundry manager, and household search engine.And then we wonder why we’re exhausted.Emily, a former college athlete, talked about how much of her identity was built around pushing harder, doing more, and figuring it out. But motherhood did not respond to that strategy the way sports did.In motherhood, pushing harder can quickly turn into burnout.Glass Balls and Plastic BallsOne of our favorite parts of this conversation was Emily sharing something her therapist-led coach taught her: everything you’re carrying is either a glass ball or a plastic ball.Some things will break if you drop them.Some things will bounce.For Emily, laundry used to feel like a glass ball. It had to be washed, folded, and put away right away. Then baby number two came along, and she realized some things could wait.We all have glass and plastic balls in life. The question becomes, which balls can drop without breaking in this season.The Octopus MomentEmily’s book has also given her family shared language.Instead of snapping, “Can’t you see my hands are full?” she can say, “I’m having an octopus moment.”SO. GOOD!It gives kids a way to understand: Mom is overwhelmed. Mom needs patience. Mom needs help. Mom cannot do eight things at once.Side bonus: it teaches our kids a way to understand and explain their own overwhelm in a way that fully makes sense to them.Support Is Not the Same as DelegationWe also talked about the difference between support and delegation.Because “just ask for help” sounds great until asking for help becomes another job.If you have to explain what needs to be done, manage the timing, answer twelve questions, and make everyone feel appreciated afterward, that is not always support. Every mom can feel this.Real support might look like someone folding the laundry, washing bottles, dropping off breakfast, holding the baby, chopping the fruit, or taking meal planning completely off your plate without asking you 47 follow-up questions.The hard part, of course, is that every mom needs something different.Some of us want the baby held, some of us want the dishes done, some of us want company, some of us want everyone to leave lovingly and immediately.And half the battle is figuring out what would actually help, then finding the words to say it.We Also Talked About...* How Emily’s postpartum anxiety and depression showed up differently than she expected, especially as someone used to pushing through hard things.* Why high-achieving moms can confuse “I can handle this” with “I should handle this alone.”* The way motherhood forces us to loosen our grip on the version of balance we thought we were supposed to have.* How support can change depending on the season. Sometimes it’s a break. Sometimes it’s someone taking one entire category off your plate.* Why it can feel so awkward to tell people what would actually help, even when they genuinely want to help.* And, of course, why a postpartum fridge magnet that says “here are things you can do without asking me 900 questions” may need to become official Get Mom Ready merch immediately.Why This Episode MattersThis conversation is about the mental load of motherhood, the pressure to do it all, and the tiny ways we can start telling the truth about our limits.If you have been trying to be everything for everyone, this episode is your reminder:Mommy is not an octopus.Mommy is a human, and humans are allowed to need help.If This Episode Hit Close to HomeIf you’re in a season where everyone needs something from you all the time, you are not crazy and you are not failing. You may just be having an octopus moment (or year).Our coaches would love to help you figure out what’s glass, what’s plastic, and what kind of support would actually support you in this season.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Find EmilyEmily Busby is the author of Mommy’s Not an Octopus.You can find her on Instagram at @mommysnotanoctopus.Hardcover copies and all of her printable resources are available at mommysnotanoctopus.com. Paperback and ebook versions are available on Amazon.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comIn this episode, we started with the usual chaos: shirt compliments, color analysis, Top Chef, leftover tortellini bake, and the realization that our group chat probably really should be a podcast.But the real conversation was about something so many moms feel, even if we don’t always say it out loud:Why do we feel like we need permission?Permission to leave the house. Permission to rest. Permission to ask for help. Permission to go out with friends. Permission to say, “I’m going to do this,” instead of, “Would it be okay if I…?”We talked about the difference between asking for consideration and asking for permission, why moms often feel guilty when someone else has to step into the role we usually carry, and how hard it can be to rest when your kids are still in the house and still looking for you every three seconds.We also talked about the sneaky resentment that can build when we keep telling ourselves, “I can do it,” instead of asking, “At what cost?”Because yes, we can push through. We can keep carrying it. We can be strong enough.But that doesn’t mean we should have to.Permission vs. considerationThere’s a difference between giving your spouse a heads up and asking if you’re allowed to have a life.A shared calendar? Helpful.Saying, “Hey, I’m meeting the girls Tuesday night, let me know if there’s an issue”? Great.Feeling like you have to justify why you need one hour to eat a burger, go on a walk, read a book, or sit in silence? That’s where we may need to pause.What’s your version of golf balls?We talked about how some people seem to naturally know how to decompress. Golf balls. Video games. A quiet drive. A workout.And then there are moms who are standing in the kitchen thinking, “Wait, what is that for me?”Not what is productive. Not what helps the house. Not what checks something off the list.What actually restores you?Resting at home is its own kind of hardSometimes we don’t want to leave. Sometimes we want to be home, near our kids, but not the person answering every single request.We want to read the book. Take the bath. Eat the breakfast. Finish the thought.And part of motherhood is slowly teaching our kids, and ourselves, that Mom’s needs matter too.“I can do it” is not the same as “I should”This one hit.So many of us have built our lives around being capable. We can handle it. We can figure it out. We can keep going.But if the cost is resentment, exhaustion, anger, or feeling like you’ve disappeared under everyone else’s needs, it may be time to ask a different question.Not “Can I carry this?”But “What is this costing me?”This episode is for the mom who keeps waiting for permission, and maybe needs the reminder that needing rest, friendship, space, help, or a minute to eat her own breakfast does not make her selfish.It makes her human.For the practical momIf you found yourself nodding along, start here. These are the questions we’re taking with us:* Where in my life am I asking for permission when I really just need to communicate with consideration?* Am I inviting people into my decisions because I value their input, or because I need reassurance?* What is my version of hitting golf balls, playing video games, or a quiet walk?* Where am I saying, “I can do it,” when the better question might be, “At what cost?”* What belief about myself is keeping me from asking for what I need?* What is one small way I can teach my family that Mom’s needs matter too?And maybe the gentlest one of all:* What would it look like this week to stop waiting for permission and start practicing partnership?Want help practicing this in real life?If this stirred something up and you’re realizing you may need support untangling the guilt, the resentment, or the “I can just do it” pattern, that’s exactly the kind of thing we work through in coaching.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Get Mom Ready is the community for driven moms living full lives and figuring out how all the pieces work together. Subscribe to get every episode and article delivered to your inbox.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

For the mom trying to give her kids a magical summer without losing herselfSubscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comYou know those conversations that start with Slip ’N Slides, splash pads, Costco pools, and “’90s summer”…and somehow end up at the deep emotional truth that maybe your kids are not the only ones who need screen time boundaries?That was today’s episode.We started with summer. The kind where the kids are home, the hose is out, the $20 backyard pool is doing the heavy lifting, and everyone is trying to make “low-lift fun” feel like enough. Honestly? We support this math.But then Mary Scott (our guest this week & one of Meredith’s best friends who quickly become one of ours) said something that reset the conversation: I wonder if my inability to hold personal boundaries is gonna pour over into my inability to keep boundaries with my kids.And there it was.The conversation turned into: what happens when motherhood gets loud, overstimulating, repetitive, and relentless, and we find ourselves reaching for whatever gives us a little escape. A phone, p podcast, audiobook, Instagram. Anything that makes the backyard, the whining, the snack requests, the 5:30 a.m. wakeups, and the 14th “Mommy?” feel a little less consuming.Because we love our kids…and we’re only human.The hard part of summer is not just the kids being homeSummer with little kids can sound so simple from the outside. Let them play outside, give them popsicles, fill up the kiddie pool, go to the library, let them be bored. Bring back the ’90s summer!!Great. Love that. Fully on board.But the actual experience can feel very different.Because you are still managing sunscreen, snacks, sibling fights, hydration, towels, “watch this,” “watch this again,” and someone crying because the hose water is too cold.And if you are a mom with young kids, you may not be getting the clean, quiet morning routine people on the internet are always trying to sell you.If you’re like Mary Scott, you may be trying to read at 5:08 a.m. while one kid crawls into your bed, another kid wakes up at 5:38 asking for cheese balls, and you are whisper-yelling because one wrong floorboard creak could wake the whole house.So when we talk about boundaries, we are not talking about cute, aesthetic boundaries. We are talking about the kind you need when you are already overstimulated before 6:00 a.m.What we walked away withThis episode was not a neat and tidy “five ways to survive summer with kids” conversation, but there were a lot of takeaways that felt immediately useful:* Set yourself up before the day starts bossing you around.Sometimes the most regulating thing you can do is put the water cups out the night before. Or set breakfast bowls where the kids can reach them. Or put a basket of quiet toys, books, or the Toniebox by the couch where you actually sit in the morning. Not because you are trying to become a perfect systems mom, but because 5:30 a.m. you would love those small acts of prep.* Notice what you are reaching for.This conversation was never really just about phones. It was about the constant input. Instagram, podcasts, audiobooks, music, noise, anything that keeps us from sitting in the discomfort of the moment. Sometimes the question is not, “Why am I on my phone again?” Sometimes it is, “What am I trying not to feel right now?”* What down what you love.Literally, make a list and put it on the fridge like Hannah did. That way, when you do have pockets of downtime, you don’t have to reach for more noise, you have a reminder of hobbies that refuel you without having to do the mental gymnastics of remembering what you even like with the 15 minutes you have.* Let jealousy give you information.Mary Scott talked about looking back on the school year and feeling frustrated that she had childcare hours but still did not do some of the things she wanted to do. Write. Create. Start the Substack. Have something that felt like fruit. Hannah’s response was so helpful: what if the things you feel jealous of are not there to shame you, but to show you what you really want?* Reset the day when it starts sideways.If the morning starts in full reactive mode, you are allowed to call a redo. You can literally say, “You know what? We’re starting over.” Go back into your room, walk out again, make it silly and fun, and let your kids see that a bad moment does not have to become a bad day.* Repeat after me, “I am the mom”One of the biggest themes in this conversation was how easy it is to parent from a reactive place. Staying calm is sometimes as easy as remembering that you are the one in charge. You get to decide your family’s rhythms, routines, and habits. And that’s a gift, not a burden.This episode is for the mom who wants to be present but also wants to be a personThere are so many competing messages in motherhood.Be present, but let them be bored. Enjoy every second, but have your own hobbies. Don’t make your kids the center of the universe, but remember this is their only childhood. Take care of yourself, but also be emotionally available, regulated, patient, playful, structured, flexible, and somehow not annoyed when someone asks for a snack 11 minutes after breakfast.No wonder we are tired.This conversation does not tie all of that up in a neat bow, because real motherhood rarely works that way. But it does give language to something a lot of moms are living right now.You can love your kids deeply and still want to escape sometimes. You can set boundaries with your kids and realize you need some with yourself too. You can create a magical summer without making yourself the cruise director. You can be present without being constantly available. You can be the mom and still be a person.And maybe this summer doesn’t have to be about doing more. Maybe it can be about noticing what is not working, releasing some shame, making a few tiny changes, and remembering that you are allowed to lead your home with calm, confidence, and a little more mercy for yourself.If this episode hit close to homeIf you’re anything like Mary Scott, maybe you noticed a gap between the mom you are in real life and the mom you want to be in your head because motherhood has a way of exposing the places where our own boundaries, rhythms, expectations, and coping mechanisms are not quite working anymore.And sometimes, you just need someone to help you name what’s happening, get curious about what’s underneath it, and find a few practical next steps that actually fit the season you’re in.If you loved the way Hannah and Meredith helped Mary Scott walk through what she was feeling, our coaches would love to do the same for you.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith, or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Get Mom Ready is the community for driven moms living full lives and figuring out how all the pieces work together. Subscribe to get every episode and article delivered to your inbox.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comEpisode Show NotesWhen you think of the Enneagram, you probably think of phrases like, “I’m such a 7,” or “That’s so Enneagram 8 of me.”But what if the Enneagram was less about labeling yourself and more about learning how to notice your patterns with a little more honesty, kindness, and compassion?In this episode of Get Mom Ready, Holly, Meredith, and Anna sit down with Meredith’s longtime friend Nicole Shephard to talk about the Enneagram, but not in a “put yourself in a number box and stay there forever” kind of way.Nicole is certified in the Enneagram for Conscious Living, and she helps us think about the Enneagram as a tool for noticing our patterns, understanding ourselves with more kindness, and maybe yelling at our kids slightly less when bedtime goes off the rails (Or at least understanding why we yelled)…baby steps.Why Moms Will Love This ConversationBecause motherhood has a special way of revealing exactly what is going on inside of us.* The bedtime routine gets disrupted and suddenly you’re not just annoyed, you’re deeply annoyed.* Your kid has a meltdown and somehow it activates every unhealed thing inside your body.* Your spouse says one normal sentence and you’re like, “Wow, interesting tone.”* You finally get a quiet moment and instead of relaxing, you start mentally reorganizing the pantry, planning summer logistics, and wondering if your child’s entire emotional future depends on how you handled bath time.So yeah, we need tools to help us navigate the many emotions of motherhood.And in this conversation, Nicole helps us see the Enneagram as one of those tools. Not to overanalyze everyone in your house. Not to type your toddler. Please do not walk around saying, “She’s giving unhealthy 4 energy” about your preschooler. But to ask better questions about ourselves:* What’s actually underneath my reaction?* Is this fear, shame, or anger?* What pattern do I keep falling into?* What does my kid need from me right now?* What do I need right now?* And Nicole’s favorite: how do I bring a little more compassion into the whole situation?The Enneagram Is Not Just a Personality TestNicole explains that the Enneagram is wayyy more layered than the quick internet version most of us have heard.Instead of saying, “I am a type,” she uses the phrase “center of gravity,” which feels so much less dramatic and permanent. Your type is not your prison sentence. It’s simply a pattern you tend to return to.The goal is not to say, “Well, I’m an 8, so good luck everyone.” The goal is to notice the patterns, understand what they were trying to protect, and decide whether they are still helping you now.Please Don’t Type Your ToddlerOne of our favorite parts of this conversation is when Nicole talks about using the Enneagram as a mom.She is not trying to figure out her kids’ Enneagram numbers while they are still little. Instead, she uses the framework to pay attention to what might be driving their behavior by asking:“Is this coming from fear, anger, shame?”A much more useful approach than trying to diagnose every tantrum.Because sometimes our kids are not “being difficult.” Sometimes they are scared, embarrassed, mad, tired, overstimulated, or all of the above (plus they were given the wrong color cup, which, as we know, is a full family crisis).Nicole talks about meeting our kids in that place instead of immediately trying to fix or correct the behavior. And that led us into a really tender conversation about our kids’ essence: who they are before the world tells them who they should be.Yes, we cried a little. 🥹Marriage, Routines, and the Plans We Keep Not MakingNicole also talks about instincts (self-preservation, social, and attraction/sexual) and how they show up in real life.And this is where Holly realizes that she and her husband, Elliott may both lean hard toward structure and routine, which would explain why they can talk about rock climbing for 13 years and never actually go rock climbing.They have also discussed going to a concert multiple times but still haven’t bought the tickets, because apparently wanting to do something and actually disrupting your routine to do it are two very different activities.If you have ever said, “We should totally do that,” and then immediately returned to your couch, your calendar, and your regularly scheduled life, this section is for you.Your Spouse Is Not Supposed to Be YouOne of Nicole’s most helpful reminders is that every type, center, and instinct has value.The point is not to make your spouse, friend, child, or co-worker see the world exactly the way you do. The point is to get curious about what they see that you might be missing.Nicole talks about how she shares what she is learning with her partner, owns the ways her own patterns affect their family, and tries to see his way of moving through the world as something she can learn from, not just something to correct.When Other People Won’t “Do the Work”We also get into the thing many of us feel but maybe do not always say out loud:It is really frustrating when you are trying to grow, heal, become more self-aware, go to therapy, read the books, listen to the podcasts, take the walks, journal the feelings, and someone else is just… not.Nicole offers a gentle but very inconvenient reminder: the work always starts with us.Not because other people’s choices do not matter, not because you should tolerate unhealthy behavior, and not because boundaries are optional.But because the only person you can actually change is you.Nicole’s Life in the CotswoldsNicole also shares her story of moving to the UK, raising two British-born daughters in the Cotswolds, and what it has looked like to follow a vision for her life that started long before motherhood.It is dreamy and brave and very “wait, should we all move to the English countryside?”Listen If…Listen to this episode if you’ve ever:* Used the Enneagram to explain yourself and then wondered if that was allowed* Wanted to understand your reactions instead of just feeling bad about them* Felt triggered by your child’s totally normal child behavior* Wanted better language for marriage and conflict* Had a toddler meltdown turn into a personal growth opportunity you did not ask for* Said, “We should do that sometime,” and then never did it* Needed a reminder that self-awareness should make you kinder, not meaner to yourselfGet Mom Ready is a podcast for moms navigating the tension of work, life, and everything else we carry. Subscribe for free to get our weekly episodes in your inbox.Resources Mentioned to go Deeper Into The EnneagramNicole recommended Russ Hudson as her favorite Enneagram teacher and suggested starting with his work if you want to go deeper.The Wisdom of the Enneagram by Don Richard Riso and Russ HudsonA foundational overview of all nine types.Understanding the Enneagram by Don Richard Riso and Russ HudsonA deeper, more technical resource on the triads and structure of the Enneagram.The Enneagram: Nine Gateways to Presence by Russ HudsonAn audiobook Nicole described as more meditative and embodied, especially helpful for people with a mindfulness practice.The Enneagram Institute Type Descriptions and AssessmentNicole said an assessment can be a helpful place to start, as long as you treat it as a direction to explore rather than a final answer.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comWe thought this conversation would be about navigating life as a medical mom.And it is, but like every honest conversation on this podcast, it turned into an encouragement to every mom who feels like they’re carrying the weight of the world.It became a conversation about what happens when the life you planned stops being the life you’re living. About releasing expectations you didn’t even realize you were carrying. About redefining what “success” looks like when you’re split in twelve directions and none of them come with a manual.Amber is a mom of four, a full-time professional, a medical mom to her son Santi who has congenital heart disease and is currently awaiting a heart transplant at Texas Children’s Hospital, and she is somehow still the most positive, grounded person in the room.As she shared in the episode:“You can be optimistic about things, but you can’t be attached to them.”That one line might be the most useful thing any of us hear this week.What This Episode Is Really AboutYes, we talk about Santi’s medical journey, hospital stays, and the day-to-day reality of caring for a child on a transplant list. But underneath all of that, this episode is about:* The moment you realize motherhood isn’t going to look like you imagined* What it means to keep showing up when you’ve had to let go of the plan* How to redefine success when your old version of “enough” doesn’t fit anymore* Why accepting help is one of the hardest and most important things a mom can do* And how community and small moments of joy carry you through seasons that don’t make sense yetThemes We Keep Coming Back To From This ConversationYou can plan everything and still get blindsided, and that’s not failure, that’s life.Letting go of expectations isn’t giving up. It’s how you survive and find joy.“Strong” doesn’t always feel strong on the inside.Sometimes the most important thing you do today is cuddle your kids and let the rest wait.Asking for help doesn’t come naturally to most moms, so if you see one struggling, just show up. Don’t wait for her to ask.If You’re In This Season Right Now…This episode is for you if:* You’re managing more than feels manageable and wondering how other moms do it* You’ve had to grieve a version of motherhood or a version of yourself that you expected* You’re redefining what success looks like at work, at home, or both* You feel guilty for the way you’re parenting even though you know you’re doing your best* You’re a medical mom, a heart mom, or a mom who just needs to hear: you’re not behind. You’re in it.Or you just need someone to remind you to listen to your body and when in doubt, rest.Resources + LinksConnect with Amber and ask to be a part of Santi’s group. She will send you the link to follow his medical journey: Related Episodes/Resources:* Parenting in the Middle of Medical Chaos: Anna’s Story as a Medical Mom* Chronic Decision Fatigue: Why You’re Exhausted & How to Overcome It* The Week I Couldn’t Even Look at My DaughterWant More Support?If this episode stirred something in you, if you’re holding more than you thought you’d be holding right now, or you’re trying to figure out what “enough” even looks like in this season, Get Mom Ready Coaching is here for you.We don’t give you more to do. We help you become a version of yourself that can actually hold your life.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.You don’t get to choose most of what life hands you. You don’t get to choose the diagnosis, the hospital stay, the season that turns everything sideways.But you do get to choose how you carry it. And sometimes carrying it well looks like letting go of the way you thought it was supposed to look and finding something real and good in what’s actually here.Listen to your body. Accept the help. And when in doubt? Rest.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

On last week’s Sunday Reset, Hannah shared what’s in her pool bag this summer.Hannah has such an eye for fashion and looking put together, and I am often…the opposite of that.Which is one of the reasons I love GetMomReady so much. We are all so different, but we are unified by the same values: telling the truth, supporting each other, and making space for the whole mom.So this is my version of “what’s in my bag.”Most days, my “bag” is:* my phone* a wallet stuck to the back of it* and one car keyThat’s it.I don’t really carry a purse because digging through a bag is my personal nightmare. I like pockets. I like being hands-free. Do I need a cute bag for networking events? Yes.Especially after the time I showed up to a very fancy fundraising brunch at River Oaks Country Club in an outfit I felt amazing in (read more about that outfit in my Mother’s Day saga here)… only to realize my ancient clutch was literally shedding white pieces behind me as I walked to my seat.Very humbling and very classic Holly Tate.But that little “what’s in my bag” moment got me thinking about something bigger for this Sunday Reset.My word for this year is simplify (see vision board pic in the video above or the pic below!). And as we get close to the halfway point of the year, I’m checking back in with that word.Because simplifying is not just about carrying less or carrying “the right” stuff.For me, it’s about simplifying my commitments, having fewer unfinished decisions, cancelling subscriptions that aren’t serving me, and reflecting on the things living rent-free in my brain.For years in my corporate jobs, Sunday meant the Sunday scaries for me: that pit in my stomach when I looked at the week ahead and thought about everything I owed, everything I was behind on, and everything waiting for me on Monday.I don’t live in that same rhythm anymore, and I’m really grateful for that.But I still need a reset.Because I’m not usually the person who needs motivation to do more.I’m the person who needs to be reminded that less is often more.So this week, I’m asking myself:* What am I carrying that I do not actually need to carry? (physically and mentally!!)* What decision have I already made in my gut but haven’t acted on yet? * What commitment, subscription, or expense is no longer serving me in this season?* Where am I over-activating instead of simplifying?* What is the smallest next step I can take to make this week feel lighter?That’s my Sunday Reset.Just one honest check-in with what I said mattered to me this year.What are you resetting this week?Here’s to small steps that lead to simplifying our weeks before Monday. Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Jess Freeman spent years being pretty sure she wasn’t going to have kids.Not in a dramatic, announcement-to-the-world way. More like a quiet, steady conclusion she carried after losing her mom in a car accident at 24, two months into running her business full time, two weeks before Christmas.Her brain did what a lot of our brains would do. No mom. Can’t be a mom. Not happening.And for a long time, that felt like the answer.The Workbook That Changed EverythingYears later, after a fostering experience that was equal parts meaningful and traumatic, after watching close friends have babies, after sitting in the tension of “I genuinely don’t know if I’m supposed to do this,” Jess did what any type-A woman would do.She found a workbook on Amazon.Somewhere around chapter eight, there was a prompt: Write a letter to the child you’re choosing not to have. (yes, we all got chills.)And she couldn’t do it.That was the answer.“You Could Just Have One”Jess brought this realization to a mentor, a friend about ten years older who knew she’d been wrestling with this. Jess told her she thought she was supposed to have kids, and that it was terrifying.Her friend said two things. First: I know you can do this. Second: You could just have one.And Jess said something on the podcast that stuck with us. She said she knew she didn’t need permission. But in that moment, the permission opened a door she didn’t know was available.She got pregnant a month later.“She Has the Best Advocate in Her Back Pocket”Jess is a type 1 diabetic, diagnosed at three. One of her biggest fears about having a baby was passing it on. There’s no guarantee either way, and the not-knowing is its own kind of weight.But when we asked how she navigated that surrender, she said something that wrecked us: “Well, she has the best advocate in her back pocket if it happens.”That confidence didn’t come from nowhere. It came from watching her own mom advocate fiercely for her. Standing in the hallway at school going to bat for her. Making sure her daughter was seen and cared for, even when the systems around her didn’t get it.Jess is carrying that forward now.Designing a Life, Not Just Running a BusinessJess has been running Jess Creatives for 15 years. She also founded The Ordinary Business, a podcast and community for business owners who want to do good work and work with cool people without chasing a million-dollar goal.What stood out to us in this conversation wasn’t just her business success. It was how intentionally she’s built her life around it.She doesn’t work Fridays. She has a clear revenue ceiling she’s comfortable with. She turns down projects when she’s full, even when the money is tempting. She’d rather be present at bedtime than answering one more email.And she said something we think every mom building something needs to hear: she’s not willing to say yes to work just for money if it means missing bedtime, staying up until midnight, or skipping the park. “You can wait until my next availability, or you can go find someone else.”That’s not luck. That’s 15 years of designing a life on purpose.The Thing About Mother’s IntuitionAt the very end of our conversation (the part that wasn’t even supposed to be recorded), Jess said something that we couldn’t not share.She expected mother’s intuition to be loud. Like a clear signal. A flashing sign. And for months after her daughter was born, she thought she didn’t have it.Then she realized: for her, it’s quiet. It’s the small thought that crosses her mind, like “maybe I should take her to the doctor.” Not a dramatic knowing. Just a nudge.She followed one of those nudges once. Double ear infection.That was her intuition. She just didn’t recognize it because she was waiting for it to shout.Why This Episode MattersThis is a conversation about grief and motherhood and entrepreneurship and identity and what happens when you stop waiting for life to feel certain and start designing it anyway.If you’ve ever felt like you needed permission to want something, or like your instincts were too quiet to trust, or like you had to have it all figured out before you could take the next step, this one’s for you.If This Episode Hit Close to HomeSometimes you hear a story and realize you’ve been carrying something similar. If you’re in a season where you’re navigating big decisions, identity shifts, or just trying to figure out what you actually want, our coaches get it and would love to help you build a life that fits the season you’re in. You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Find Jess* Jess Creatives Website* The Ordinary Business Website* Jess’ Instagram* Jess’ ThreadsGet Mom Ready is the community for driven moms living full lives and figuring out how all the pieces work together. Subscribe to get every episode and article delivered to your inbox.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comOkay…we thought this episode was going to be practical, like: “10 easy self-care tips for moms.”Maybe a conversation about bubble baths. Maybe a Target run. Maybe one of us would say “drink more water” and we’d all nod in agreement…instead, we somehow ended up questioning the entire concept of self-care (because, of course we did). 🫣Here’s why: somewhere along the way, self-care started feeling like another thing moms were supposed to optimize.Another thing to buy, another thing to earn, another thing to perform, and a lot of the time, it still leaves us exhausted.The MRI That Accidentally Became Self-CareThis episode starts with Anna getting an MRI on Mother’s Day weekend.Which sounds stressful… except she somehow found it relaxing.No phone, no interruptions, a warm blanket, and permission to lay still for 45 minutes…basically a spa day.And while most people would describe an MRI as claustrophobic, Anna’s immediate thought was:“Wow. Nobody can reach me.”Which honestly says a lot about modern motherhood. That story became the jumping-off point for a bigger conversation:What if self-care isn’t always about escaping your life, but about finding ways to feel more grounded inside your life?Maybe Real Self-Care Is More Proactive Than ReactiveOne of the biggest themes from this conversation was this idea that self-care isn’t always the thing you do after you hit your breaking point. Sometimes it’s the tiny systems that help prevent the breaking point in the first place.Like:* organizing the makeup drawer that irritates you every morning* finally dealing with the chaotic shoe basket by the front door* prepping the coffee the night before* creating rhythms that reduce mental friction (something we also talked about on an episode with Productivity Coach Jennifer Sise and her idea of “naming your time” - seriously, drop everything and go listen now.)* cleaning the kitchen before bed so tomorrow-you feels calmerNot because these things magically fix motherhood, but because little moments of frustration add up. And when every part of your day feels slightly harder than it needs to be, eventually your nervous system notices.The Difference Between Dopamine and RestorationWe also talked about how easy it is to confuse:* fun* distraction* treats* shopping* scrolling* “I deserve this” energy…with actual restoration.To be clear: we are not anti-fun.Nobody here is trying to take away your Target run or your TJ Maxx stroll or your iced coffee.But we are asking a deeper question:What actually helps me show up better for myself and for the people I love?Because those aren’t always the same thing. Sometimes self-care is a massage. Sometimes it’s texting your girlfriends and putting dinner on the calendar before another month slips by. Sometimes it’s finally fixing the thing in your house that’s quietly stressing you out every single day.The Word We Kept Coming Back To: ResetAt one point in the episode, we realized maybe what we’re all actually looking for isn’t “self-care.”It’s a reset.A reset for:* your nervous system* your environment* your expectations* your mental load* your attitude* your capacityNot necessarily escape. Just enough space to feel like yourself again.A Few Practical Self-Care Tips We SharedYes, we did finally get into the practical. Here are some of the little things that genuinely help us feel more grounded lately:* waking up before the kids for quiet coffee + reading time* doing as much life as possible with other moms instead of alone* keeping the kitchen reset at night* creating tiny organization systems that reduce decision fatigue* scheduling “me” tasks and kid tasks throughout the day to make sure everyone is happy instead of trying to do it all at once* reading instead of endless scrolling* making plans with girlfriends before burnout hitsNone of these are revolutionary. But honestly? That’s kind of the point. We don’t need one more thing to do or buy, we just need to find stillness and joy in the day-to-day.Get Mom Ready CoachingA lot of what we talked about in this episode comes back to something we believe deeply at Get Mom Ready:Most moms don’t necessarily need more information. They need support creating lives that actually feel sustainable. Sometimes that looks like:* processing identity shifts.* reducing mental load.* learning how to stop living in constant overstimulation, resentment, or survival mode.* or having someone help you figure out what actually helps you feel more like yourself again.That’s a huge part of what we do in coaching.If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, or like you’re constantly running on fumes, we’d love to talk with you.You can learn more about coaching by booking a call with Meredith or send us a DM on Instagram @getmomready.Maybe real self-care isn’t about constantly trying to escape motherhood. Maybe it’s about creating small rhythms, systems, and relationships that help motherhood feel a little softer to live inside of.If this episode resonates with you, send it to a mom friend who’s tired of being told self-care is just buying another candle.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comWe thought this conversation would be about breastfeeding.But like so many conversations in motherhood… it became about so much more.It became a conversation about identity, expectations, how nothing quite prepares you for the reality of feeding your baby no matter how much you think it will, and ultimately… it became a conversation about this:Motherhood is both grief and joy, all at once.As Shelby Nelson, known as Supportive Breast Friend, an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) candidate who so much of her time supporting and educating moms through their feeding journeys, shared in the episode:“Motherhood is grief. These changes are gonna bring grief. And I think also accepting that and keeping that in the back of our minds as we move through motherhood… it really takes off some of the stress and burden of the changes of seasons.”On a day like Mother’s Day, where we celebrate, reflect, and maybe feel a little bit of everything, this felt especially true.What This Episode Is Really AboutYes, we talk about breastfeeding, pumping, weaning, and feeding decisions; but underneath all of that, this episode is about:* The unexpected emotional weight of feeding your baby* The identity shifts that come with motherhood* The pressure we put on ourselves to “get it right”* The reality that every mom’s journey looks different* And how to hold grief and joy at the same timeBecause feeding your baby isn’t just physical. It’s relational, emotional, and deeply personal. All of our experiences are unique, and no one experience is the “right” one.A Few Baby Feeding Truths We Keep Coming Back To* No one expects it to be this hard* You can prepare… and still feel unprepared* You might feel empowered and exhausted at the same time* You might want to stop… and never want it to end* You’re allowed to change your mind (daily, hourly, mid-feed)And maybe most importantly:Healthy mom + healthy baby > everything elseIf You’re In This Season Right Now…This episode is for you if:* You’re navigating breastfeeding, pumping, or weaning* You’re questioning your decisions (constantly)* You feel pressure to do it a certain way* You’re grieving a version of motherhood you expected* Or you just need someone to say, “this is normal”Resources + LinksConnect with Shelby:* Instagram* Follow her to stay tuned for her website + upcoming support group* Podcast: Supportive Breast Friend* Apple* SpotifyEach of our stories on becoming moms + our breastfeeding/pumping stories* Becoming a Mom: Holly’s Story of Miscarriage, Pumping, and Finding Herself* Parenting in the Middle of Medical Chaos: Anna’s Story as a Medical Mom* Trusting Your Gut (and Laughing Through the Tears): Meredith’s Story* Intentional Living & Growing Your Capacity: Hannah’s StoryHolly’s Story on Shelby’s Podcast:* Supportive Breast Friend episode featuring HollyStarting Solids + Nutrition:* Katie Ferraro podcast The Book that Broke Meredith’s Heart:* They Bloom Because of You: Poems on the Infinite Love, Growth, and Magic of MotherhoodWant More Support?If this episode stirred something in you, if you’re holding a lot right now, or if you’re trying to figure out how to navigate motherhood on your terms, Get Mom Ready Coaching is here for you.We don’t give you more to do. We help you become a version of yourself that can actually hold your life.Motherhood is a series of “last times.” The last feed, the last middle-of-the-night wake-up, the last version of who you were before everything changed, and maybe that’s what Mother’s Day holds too: a moment just to notice it all.You don’t have to rush past it, and you don’t have to hold onto it forever. You just get to be in it: the grief, the joy, and all of it at the same time.Happy Mother’s Day!Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comThere’s a tension a lot of moms don’t say out loud. You finally have the option to step back, go hybrid, or stay home, and instead of just feeling grateful, you feel weird.* Guilty.* Privileged.* Unsure if you’ve “earned” it.* Questioning if it’s “okay” not to work a 9-5.This week on Get Mom Ready, all four of us sat down and went there because this isn’t just about work.* It’s about identity.* It’s about money.* It’s about relationships.* It’s about how the rules for women have changed faster than we’ve emotionally caught up with.And it’s complicated!The Conversation We’re All Quietly HavingWe started with a simple question: What does it look like to move from full-time work to something more flexible… without guilt?And quickly realized there’s no clean answer. Because:* You can feel grateful and still feel uncomfortable* You can choose this life and still question it* You can love your days and still wonder if you’re doing enoughThat tension isn’t failure, it’s being a modern mom.Why This Feels So Hard (Even When It’s Good)Here’s something we don’t talk about enough: Women have only had the ability to build independent financial lives for a few generations, so of course this feels new.We are:* The first (or second) generation to fully navigate career + motherhood* The first to have real flexibility and autonomy* The first to ask: what do I actually want my life to look like?No one handed us a clear blueprint for this, so we’re building it in real time.The Identity Piece No One Warns You AboutEven when motherhood becomes the priority, there’s still a part of you that wants to exist outside of it. Not because you don’t love your kids. But because you’re still… you.In this episode, we talked about:* Wanting work that feels meaningful, not just necessary* The pull toward part-time or hybrid work you actually enjoy* The fear of losing yourself entirely in one roleAnd the truth is: You don’t have to pick one identity, you’re allowed to hold multiple things at once.The Money Conversation (That Shapes Everything)Let’s be honest, this decision is never just emotional. It’s deeply financial. We talked about:* Lowering expenses to create freedom* Taking a pay cut for flexibility* The real stress of month-to-month tradeoffsAnd also: The quiet calculation every mom is making:“Is this worth it?”Time. Energy. Childcare. Work. Presence. It’s all connected.The Part No One Likes to Admit: Guilt + “Earning It”One of the most honest moments of the episode came from this:“I feel like I haven’t done enough to earn this life.”That feeling? It shows up in different ways:* “I should be more productive if I have this flexibility”* “Other people don’t get this option”* “I didn’t sacrifice enough to deserve this”And underneath it is a belief many of us carry: If you’re not suffering, you must not be doing it right.Let’s Challenge That for a SecondWhat if that’s not true?What if:* You don’t have to grind to prove your worth* You don’t have to justify enjoying your life* You don’t have to earn rest, presence, or joyWhat if the goal isn’t to be exhausted, but to actually build a life that fits you?The Permission We’re Giving Ourselves (and You)Here’s where we landed:* You can love your kids and want something for yourself* You can enjoy your life without apologizing for it* You can change your mind in different seasons* You can build your life on your termsAnd maybe most importantly, you don’t have to do it the same way forever.One Line We’re Taking With Us“You can do all the things. You just can’t do all of them at the same time.”This is a season, and all seasons change.If This Episode Hit Home…You’re not alone in this. This is exactly the kind of conversation we’re having every week, honest, nuanced, and rooted in the real lives we’re actually living.Subscribe at getmomready.com to get:* New episode drops* Articles you won’t see anywhere else* Resources to help you navigate this seasonWant support actually applying this to your life?Knowing what you need and actually building a life around it are two very different things. That’s where coaching comes in.Get Mom Ready coaching is designed to help you:* Get clear on what you actually want in this season* Work through the guilt, pressure, and “shoulds”* Build rhythms that support both your life and your identityNot a one-size-fits-all plan, not more “ you should…,” just thoughtful, personalized support to help you move forward.And We’d Love to Hear From YouWhere are you right now in your relationship with motherhood and work? And what’s the tension you feel most?Reply, DM us, or share this with a friend who’s in it too.Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comThere’s a conversation happening right now that we don’t want moms sitting out of.Recently, Reese Witherspoon posted on Instagram about learning AI and why women need to be part of shaping it. Not later. Not once it’s figured out. Now.And this week’s episode felt like the perfect continuation of that conversation.Because if we’re honest, most moms are somewhere between this feels overwhelming, I don’t trust it, and I know I should probably learn this…That’s exactly why we invited Shreya Gulati, founder of Moms Build AI, to help us think through it, not as tech experts, but as moms.🎧 What This Episode Is Really AboutThis isn’t a “here’s how to master AI” episode.It’s a conversation about how we don’t get left behind, how we protect what matters most, and how we use something like this without losing ourselves or our kids in it.Subscribe to Get Mom Ready resources for free.Meet ShreyaShreya spent her career in tech, advising AI startups and investors. But after becoming a mom, everything shifted.She deeply resonated with the quote from our episode with Ericka Graham:“You have to renegotiate your past life with your future.”Instead of going back to corporate, she started asking a bigger question: what happens if moms aren’t part of shaping AI?Because historically… we haven’t been in the room early enough. Not with social media. Not with screens. And we’ve seen how that’s played out.The Core Tension With AIThis is the tension we kept coming back to:AI can save time, reduce mental load, and make things easier. But it can also replace human connection, increase pressure, and make everything feel more optimized.So what do we do with that?Shreya said it simply:“Don’t go to it for judgment. Go to it for information.”Get Mom Ready is completely free.Subscribe to get our resources in your inbox weekly.Where This Actually HelpsWhen you bring AI into real life, it starts to feel less intimidating.It can take things like meal planning, grocery lists, and weekend decisions and just… make them easier. Not to help you do more, but to help you carry less.It’s also incredibly helpful for getting unstuck: drafting a hard email, organizing your thoughts, or just getting started on something you’ve been putting off.And one of the most practical things she shared was using voice dictation during the in-between moments. Walking, driving, pushing a stroller—turning thoughts into something usable later. For moms, that’s often the only time we have.But the key is this: it supports your thinking. It doesn’t replace it.You can use it to compare schools or organize options, but you still visit, decide, and trust your gut.The AI Conversation We Have to Have About KidsThis is where it gets more complicated.Because there’s no clear guidance yet. No long-term data. No proven “right way” to handle AI with kids.Which means we don’t get to outsource this decision.AI is already everywhere, even if we don’t realize it. And our kids will encounter it earlier than we expect. Avoiding it completely may not actually protect them, it might just leave us unprepared.What stood out most is thinking about this like an ongoing conversation, not a one-time talk. Staying informed enough to guide instead of react. Applying the same boundaries we already think about with screens.And recognizing that if we’re not learning it ourselves, it’s going to be really hard to help shape how our kids use it.The Question That Stuck With UsAt one point we asked, does AI give us more time, or just more to do?And the answer is… both.Which brings it back to us.What do we actually want our days to feel like? What’s worth optimizing, and what’s worth slowing down and enjoying?AI doesn’t answer that for us. It just amplifies whatever we choose.Where to Start With AIShreya kept this part refreshingly simple.Pick one tool, ChatGPT or Claude. Start with something you already hate doing. Don’t try to learn everything. And follow one or two trusted resources instead of overwhelming yourself.That’s it.Free AI Resources for YouShreya has built an incredible library of free resources for moms who want to start learning. You can find them here.And follow her Instagram for daily tips on staying informed about AI.She shares things like a “first 30 minutes with AI” guide, step-by-step prompts, privacy tips, and practical ways to actually use this in your day-to-day life.Final ThoughtThis isn’t about becoming a “tech mom.”It’s about being the same kind of mom you already are, thoughtful, protective, curious, and willing to learn for the sake of your family.Because whether we like it or not, AI is shaping the future.The question is, will moms help shape it too?If this episode felt helpful, send it to a friend who’s been saying,“I know I should learn this… I just don’t know where to start.”Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comThis episode is your permission slip to escape perfectionism.Because the truth is, the shame spirals don’t work.Meet ErickaThis week, we sat down with Ericka Graham:* A mom of two boys* A preacher at Ecclesia in Houston* A former NFL wife* Co-founder of Project 88 (a nonprofit that raised $1.9M)* Host of the podcast Curiously with Ericka GrahamAnd she’ll be the first to tell you she’s also a “messy mom.” Not in a chaotic way. In an honest, human, deeply freeing way.Her best quotes from the episode are highlighted below, and believe us… you don’t want to miss them.Don’t miss an episode.Motherhood Will Change You (And That’s the Point)“When you become a mom, you have to renegotiate your past life with your future.”Motherhood isn’t just an addition. It’s a reorganization. A sifting of what stays and what falls away in this new season.And here’s the part we don’t talk about enough:Every decision comes with loss.“I get stuck thinking there’s a perfect decision that won’t come with loss.”But that version doesn’t exist.The Trap: Trying to Do It All “Right”We feel it when:* We’re not performing like we used to* We forget something important* We don’t feel like the “put together” version of ourselvesAnd our default response? Shame.“The shame spirals don’t work.”They don’t make you better. They just keep you stuck.Why Perfection Is Actually the Problem“A perfect mom would not be a good mom… because they’re perfect.”Your imperfections aren’t the issue. They’re the gift.They’re what make you human, relatable and a safe for your kids to be imperfect too.A Better Way to Live (and Mom)Ericka said yes to getting help organizing her pantry. No spiral. No overthinking. No meaning-making. Just… “come on over.”That kind of freedom comes from letting go of this idea that you have to be everything (because you don’t).You don’t have to be:* the most organized* the most productive* the best at everythingYou just have to be present enough to notice what matters.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.Curiosity > Certainty“The opposite of faith isn’t doubt. It’s certainty.”And motherhood will strip you of certainty fast. But in its place comes curiosity.* What does this season require?* What can I let go of?* What actually matters right now?That’s where peace in motherhood is found.If This Episode Felt Like You…Send it to the friend who’s been saying, “I feel off, but I don’t know why.”Or the one who’s:* trying to figure out who she is now* comparing herself to her old life* quietly wondering if she’s doing this wrongShe’s not… and neither are you.Listen + Connect with Ericka* Podcast: Curiously with Ericka Graham* Instagram* Substack* Sermons: Ecclesia Houston on YouTube* FacebookYou don’t have to be perfect to be a good mom. In fact, perfection is the enemy of a present motherhood.If you’re in a season of renegotiating who you are, what you carry, and what you let go of, coaching can help you do that with intention.Our Get Mom Ready coaches are here to walk with you through it.You can book an exploratory call here to get started or email us at [email protected] so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | SpotifyIf you resonated with this episode, subscribe to get all weekly episodes in your inbox. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comShownotes + LinksYou’re tired.But not just “mom tired.”You feel off.More anxious than usual.More reactive than you want to be.And you can’t quite explain why.If any of that resonates, this episode is for you.This week, we sat down with Dawn Marraccino, coach for women in midlife (or really any transition), READY-certified coach, mom of four, grandma of three, and someone who has lived just about every version of motherhood you can imagine.Single mom at 20.Blended family.Working mom.Stay-at-home mom.Empty nester.And now… living on a sailboat in San Diego (casual).But what makes this conversation so powerful isn’t just her story.It’s the moments where you go:“Wait… that’s happening to me too.”“Oh… I thought that was just me.”“No one told me THIS part.”Seriously, all of us teared up at one point or another.Some of our favorite “this is me” moments* “I didn’t know everyone didn’t talk to themselves the way I do.”* “I thought I was having a nervous breakdown… it was my hormones.”* “You can do anything. But you can’t do everything.”* “Don’t become the villain in your own story.”* “It’s all hard. Just choose your hard.”What we talk about in this episodeMotherhood in every season* Becoming a mom at 20 vs. later in life* Blended family dynamics (and the real, messy parts)* What changes when your kids become adultsWork, identity, and all the hats* Why “working mom” can look a hundred different ways* Letting your career evolve with your season* The tension of wanting to work and be presentThe conversation every woman in her 30s needs to hear* Perimenopause (yes… it might already be happening)* Symptoms no one connects to hormones: anxiety, rage, brain fog, vertigo* Why so many women feel like they’re “losing it”The deeper work* Parenting your kids… while learning to parent yourself* Community vs. doing it alone* Letting go of the “perfect life” narrativeIf this sounds like the mental load you’re working through, we offer coaching for high-achieving moms wanting to master your many roles in life. Book a call to see if coaching is right for you.The line we can’t stop thinking about:“You are enough exactly how you are. You don’t have to do one more thing.”Resources + Links* Dawn’s recommended book on perimenopause: The New Perimenopause: An Evidence-Based Guide to Surviving the Zone of Chaos and Feeling Like Yourself Again.* Dawn’s website.* Dawn’s Substack (Grit & Grace).* Follow Dawn on Instagram.* The Ready Framework that Dawn said changed the way she coaches forever.If this episode felt like you…Send it to a friend who’s been saying, “I feel off but I don’t know why.”Or the one who’s:* trying to discover what’s next* questioning everything* or just trying to feel like herself againBecause transitions don’t mean you’re falling apart.They might be the moment you finally come back to yourself.Dawn is the kind of coach you want in your corner.She’s deeply passionate about helping women navigate the in-between, with grit, grace, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from living it.Book a coaching call on Dawn’s website.Don’t miss an episode!Subscribe below to GetMomReady.com for a weekly article and podcast episode straight to your inbox.You can also listen on:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comGet Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + Coaching Link There are some parts of motherhood that aren’t necessarily hard because they’re huge.They’re hard because they happen every single day.Dinner. Bedtime. School pickup. Getting out the door. Managing expectations for a “fun” weekend. Thinking about the thing you have to do later… five hours before you actually have to do it.And the very real thing that happened to Holly 2 minutes into our recording…getting the dreaded call from school that your kid has a fever and needs to come home. Cue rescheduling the afternoon meetings, cancelling your productive afternoon, and embracing the call of motherhood.In this week’s episode, we ended up talking about all of it: meal planning, bedtime checklists, school pickup resets, Disney World expectations, and the mental pressure moms carry before anything has even happened yet.And honestly? That’s kind of the point.Because so often, the issue isn’t that we’re doing motherhood “wrong.”It’s that there’s too much friction built into the way we’re trying to do it.Sometimes the most helpful question isn’t:“How do I become better at this?”Sometimes it’s:“Why does this feel so hard in the first place?”This episode is full of the kinds of practical, real-life shifts that come from asking that question.A few of the things we talked through:* taking the pressure off the belief that you have to do something because “that mom” does it* creating a “bank” of meals instead of having to make the decision from scratch each week* noticing where the friction is in your routine and adjusting from there* stopping work 10–15 minutes before pickup to reset your brain before mom mode* preparing kids for what’s coming instead of assuming they’ll just roll with it* holding expectations loosely so one hard moment doesn’t define the whole experienceOne of our favorite takeaways from this conversation was this:“The goal isn’t perfection. It’s reducing friction.”That tiny mindset shift feels small, but it changes a lot.Because once you stop forcing yourself into a system that doesn’t work for your brain, you can actually build one that does.Maybe that looks like taking the pressure off of perfect routine.Maybe it looks like doing more with other moms to make the “daily grind” more fun.Maybe it looks like buying pre-chopped onions and calling it a win.Maybe it looks like realizing your kids don’t need the most elaborate plan to have fun, they just need a mom who isn’t completely maxed out.That’s really what this episode is about: getting curious about the pressure points instead of just powering through them.And maybe, just maybe, giving yourself permission to make things easier.Because you’re allowed to do that.You’re allowed to choose the version of motherhood that works for your actual capacity.You’re allowed to prepare more (or less).You’re allowed to expect less perfection.You’re allowed to care about your experience too.And if you’ve been feeling like every routine in your life has just a little too much drag in it right now, this episode will probably feel very familiar.And if this conversation hits a little too close to home, coaching might be the next right step. We offer coaching calls for moms who want practical support, fresh perspective, and help untangling the mental load. You can book a call here.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comWhat if the thing making motherhood feel so hard… isn’t just the workload?What if part of the exhaustion is coming from spending your energy on things you don’t actually value, but feel like you’re supposed to?Anna came in with a simple question:“How do I figure out my values in motherhood?”Not in a fluffy way.In a “my days feel chaotic and I’m barely keeping up” kind of way.What unfolded is a conversation every mom needs about misalignment, mental load, and the things we’re doing just because we think we should.The real problem (that no one tells you)You might not be overwhelmed because you’re doing too much.You might be overwhelmed because: you’re doing things that aren’t actually important to you, but you feel like they should be.And that gap? That’s where burnout lives.The example we couldn’t stop coming back to: DINNERMeal planning. Grocery shopping. Cooking. Cleaning. Repeating.Anna said what we’re all thinking:“I have a system for meal planning and prep… and I still hate doing it.”And that’s the tension:* The system works* But it’s built around something she doesn’t actually valueSo instead of asking:“How do I get better at this?”We asked:“Do you even want to keep doing this?”What we uncovered (aka the actually helpful part)1. Start with what you don’t valueAnna realized:* Home-cooked meals every night? Not it for her* Eating together / eating nutritious meals / quality time? YesThat shift matters.Because when you stop forcing what isn’t yours,you finally have space for what is.2. Systems don’t fix misalignmentYou can optimize your routine all day long, but if it’s built around obligation, you will still feel exhausted.Alignment first. Systems second.3. You’re not just low on time, you’re low on energySome things don’t just take time…They take so much mental and emotional energy:* decision fatigue* guilt* resentmentAnd when your day is full of those things?Of course you feel maxed out.Try this instead of spiraling: get curiousInstead of:“Why can’t I just do this like everyone else?”Try:“Hmm… where did I learn that this matters? Who’s voice am I listening to? How can I find what matters to me and focus more on doing that well?”That one question can unravel a LOT.4. You might be discovering yourself for the first timeSome moms feel like they just want to get back to “their old selves,” you know, pre-kids. And some of us feel like we never even figured out who we were in the first place.* what we like* what we value* what we wantAnd honestly? That’s allowed to take time.5. The simplest test: do you clench or exhale?When you imagine not doing “the thing”…* Do you feel tight, stressed, resistant? → 🚩* Or do you feel relief, space, ease? → 👀That exhale? That’s data. Recognize it and start figuring out what does bring you joy if you want to start prioritizing your life around your values.Of course, there are some jobs in life we just have to do, but for the most part, we get to decide what we pursue, what we spend energy on, and how we do those things to maximize joy in the process.Okay but what do I DO with this?We didn’t just stay theoretical. Here’s where this lands practically:If dinner is draining you:* Try meal delivery for a season* Use pre-made grocery options* Repeat meals you already know work* Lower the bar (a lot)* Or outsource where you canAnd most importantly, take the time to learn what does put food on the table in a life-giving way for YOU.Because maybe your value isn’t cooking from scratch.Maybe it’s having energy left at the end of the day or enjoying time with your family.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.If this episode felt a little too relatable…If you’re:* constantly overwhelmed by decisions* doing things out of guilt* unsure what actually matters to you anymoreYou don’t need another hack.You need:* space to think* someone to process with* permission to do things differentlyThat’s what coaching is for.You can book a call with Hannah or Meredith here.Links & things we mentioned* The blow dryer/shark-airwrap situation… if you know, you know. We were influenced in real time 😂* If you want to go deeper on the time vs. energy conversation, revisit the Jennifer Sise episode. It pairs perfectly with this one and will reframe how you think about capacity.* If this episode stirred up identity questions like “what do I even like anymore?”, the Priscila Smith episode is a must-listen. It’s one of our best conversations on rediscovering yourself and your style.* When Meredith referenced looking at finances before outsourcing meals, that came from the Becca Gonzalez episode - super practical if you’re trying to make changes without blowing your budget.* The book True to You came up as a next step if you want to go deeper on identity, boundaries, and understanding your own patterns in relationships.* For our Houston moms, Tres Market is one of those “this could save dinner this week” places! Great prepared meals you can grab and be done.* Julie Barnes’ meal planning system is a practical solution if you like structure but hate the decision-making. Think: pre-built grocery lists + less Pinterest spiraling.* And of course, everything we create (podcasts, weekly resources, coaching) lives at Getmomready.comAnd yes…HelloFresh, if you’re reading this…we are ready for a partnership.🤝Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe below to GetMomReady.com for a weekly article and podcast episode straight to your inbox.You can also listen on:Apple | Spotify | GetMomReady.comGet Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + ProductsThis week on Get Mom Ready, we started with a travel horror story.Airport chaos.A toddler meltdown on a plane.And a mom crying under a blanket mid-flight.You know… the usual.But somewhere in the middle of swapping travel stories, the conversation turned into something bigger:How do we actually set ourselves up for success as moms?Not just when traveling.But anytime we’re trying to juggle work, motherhood, logistics, identity, and our own sanity.This episode is one of those conversations where we start talking about travel……and end up talking about support systems, guilt, experimentation, and what it takes to feel present in our own lives.Also, purely by accident, all three of us showed up wearing denim.Completely unplanned.Completely on brand for moms everywhere.So if you want to witness the accidental Denim Day, you can watch the episode at GetMomReady.com.In this episode we talk about…What it actually looks like to navigate travel as a mom.The logistics.The emotions.The unexpected curveballs.We get into:• traveling with kids vs. without them• preparing caregivers before you leave• the difference between real guilt and fear of what other people might think• the tiny logistical decisions that dramatically reduce mental load• how to ask for help without apologizing for it• why a spirit of experimentation might be one of the healthiest mindsets in motherhoodAnd yes, we also talk about what happens when your kid gets the flu on a work trip and you find yourself in an ER at 2 AM in Tampa.Motherhood keeps things humble.The mindset we keep coming back toOne of the biggest themes that came up in this conversation was something we all want to hold onto more:The spirit of experimentation.Instead of asking:“Am I doing this the right way?”What if we asked:“What happens if I try this?”Motherhood changes constantly.What works when your baby is 6 months oldmight not work when they’re 2.What worked last yearmight not work this year.Experimentation gives you permission to:• try something• learn from it• adjust• change your mindAnd honestly? That might be one of the most freeing parenting tools there is.A few things that actually helpedA lot of what made travel feel doable weren’t huge life changes.They were small, practical decisions.A caregiver “playbook”Before leaving, we talked about how helpful it can be to create a shared note with things like:• routines• preferences• school logistics• important contacts• pet instructions• random household things you don’t want someone guessing aboutNot because everything has to be perfect.But because preparation helps everyone breathe easier.Identifying your triggersEvery parent has a couple of things that spike their anxiety more than others.For some it’s choking.For others it’s driving.For others it’s sleep.Instead of pretending those concerns don’t exist, sometimes it helps to just name them.Sometimes readiness looks like saying:“Hey, this is one of my things. Will you humor me?”It’s not about control.It’s about giving your nervous system a little more peace.Making travel lighter (literally)One travel tip that came up in the episode was a portable car seat option that made traveling so much easier.The RideSafer Travel Vest works like a wearable car seat and folds into a small bag.If you’ve ever tried to manage a toddler, a suitcase, a backpack, and a giant car seat through an airport… you know why this matters.When the plan falls apartOf course, motherhood loves to test our plans.In this case, everything was going perfectly…until a toddler woke up throwing up at 1 AM.Cue the ER visit.Cue the Uber ride in the middle of the night.Cue the moment where you think:“Why did I think traveling with a toddler was a good idea?”But the interesting thing?Even in the chaos, the takeaway wasn’t “never do this again.”It was actually the opposite.Sometimes the things we’re most nervous about are the things that remind us:We can handle more than we think.A reminder about support systemsAnother theme that kept surfacing in this conversation:People often want to help more than we realize.Grandparents who love extra time with grandkids.Friends who are willing to be “on call.”Partners who hold down the fort.We’re not meant to do motherhood alone.And sometimes the bravest thing we can do is simply let people show up for us.If this episode resonatedWe’d love to hear from you.Tell us:• what season of motherhood you’re in• what you’re experimenting with right now• what topics you want us to cover nextYou can reach us at: [email protected] if you’re in a season where work, motherhood, identity, and life logistics all feel like they’re colliding…we offer Get Mom Ready coaching.You can book a discovery call and choose the coach who feels like the best fit for your season here.If this conversation resonated…You’re exactly who Get Mom Ready is for.Every week we share honest conversations about motherhood — the identity shifts, the mental load, the work-life tension, the things nobody really prepares you for.If you want these conversations delivered straight to your inbox, make sure you’re subscribed.Because motherhood is a lot easier when you realize: you’re not the only one figuring it out.Subscribe below and we’ll see you next week.One last thoughtThis episode may start with travel.But the deeper question we kept coming back to was this:What helps us feel ready for the life we’re living?Ready to leave.Ready to ask for help.Ready to try something new.Ready to change our minds.Ready to grow.And sometimes…ready to handle a midnight ER visit in Tampa.Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Getmomready.com on your way to the grocery store or in the drop off line today. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Click above to listen on Apple or click HERE to listen on Spotify.Show Notes: What we Talked About + ProductsHey friends! welcome back to Get Mom Ready.It’s the trio holding it down today: Meredith, Hannah, and Anna (Holly will be back!). And yes—today’s audio is a little different: Meredith is traveling and packing light, so her volume is a bit quieter than usual. Turn it up when she’s talking because she drops some of the best mental shifts in the episode.Last week we talked about something counterintuitive: sometimes the most productive thing you can do is… nothing. Step back. Put the phone away. Regulate. Stop letting constant input run your day.This week we’re holding the “both/and”:You can give yourself permission to slow down… and still want to feel more productive.Not “hustle harder” productive —More like: less pulled, less cluttered, less irritated, more present.Because honestly? That’s what most of us want.The theme of this episode: Stop living like everything is urgent.We kept coming back to this word: pulled.Pulled by:* texts* notifications* rabbit trails* “I’ll just do this one quick thing…”* the never-ending mental tabs open in your brainAnd when we’re pulled in ten directions, we end up doing life slightly irritated… even when nothing is actually wrong.So today we talk about what’s actually helping right now — the tiny shifts that reduce mental load and decision fatigue.1) The “leave your phone somewhere else” experimentWe all shared some version of this: physically separating from your phone.Examples from the episode:* leaving your phone in another room during the morning routine* leaving it inside while you play outside after school* charging it in an office (not your bedroom)* treating it like a “landline” — you have to go to it to use itAnd the surprising benefit?Less irritation.Because your kids aren’t interrupting your phone/podcast/text spiral… you’re just with them.No tug-of-war.2) Turn off notifications (and take your power back)We’re not saying “be unreachable.” We’re saying: you get to decide when the world gets access to your attention.One line we loved:“I want to happen to life. I don’t want life to happen to me.”Start small:* turn off Instagram + Substack notifications* mute the noisiest group chats* keep only calls/texts on (or set emergency contacts)This is one of the fastest ways to reduce “everything feels urgent” energy.3) Think one step ahead (not ten)This was Meredith’s core practical shift, and it’s so good:If planning overwhelms you… don’t plan the week.Just think one step ahead.Examples:* prep breakfast the night before* decide lunch while you’re eating breakfast* close curtains + turn on the sound machine before nap time chaos hits* boil extra eggs while you’re already boiling one* chop fruit/veg at night while you’re already cleaning the kitchenIt’s not about becoming a “planner.”It’s about reducing friction so you’re not living in constant scramble mode.4) Time-block your phone the way you time-block your lifeThis might be the most helpful mindset shift for anyone who keeps their inbox at “zero” (hi, Anna 🙋‍♀️):Instead of responding to everything all day long…create a few phone windows.Like:* 11:30–12:00 = texts + DMs* 3:00–3:15 = quick check-in* 8:30–9:00 = respond + catch upBecause being “caught up” isn’t the goal.Being present is.Side note: If you haven’t listened yet, go back to our episode with Jennifer Sise. It ties in perfectly to this chat. We talked about what it looks like to stop living in reactive mode, create intentional rhythms, and make decisions from a grounded place instead of a frantic one.5) A gentle reminder: the goal isn’t perfect systemsWe even said it out loud: we didn’t give “30 hot productivity tips” today.But we did name what’s underneath all of this:* reducing sensory input* creating boundaries around attention* choosing tiny systems that calm your nervous system* making the next right step easierAnd that’s the real productivity hack.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free subscriber.Try this today (one tiny action)Pick just one:* Put your phone in another room for 60 minutes* Turn off notifications for one app* Write down the Amazon/to-do rabbit trail instead of doing it immediately* Prep one thing tonight that future-you will thank you forIf you try something from this episode, tell us what you notice. We really do want to learn alongside you.Listen + keep in touchYou can listen to the full episode wherever you get podcasts, or on our site: getmomready.com (you’ll also find our articles + resources there).If this episode made you exhale even a little… send it to a mom friend who’s living with 47 tabs open.And if you want to take this week’s advice to a more practical level, book a coaching call with Hannah, Meredith, Holly, or Anna to talk through the mental load you’re carrying and create simple systems that make your days feel lighter.We’ll see you next week. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Before we go any further, let’s say this out loud:You are not “too sensitive.”You are overstimulated.Your phone is buzzing.The news is loud.The group chat is on fire.Your calendar is full.Your kids need snacks.Dinner isn’t made.And somewhere in the middle of all of it… you snap.Not because you’re a bad mom.Not because you don’t care.But because your nervous system was never designed for this much input.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.We Were Built for Acute Stress, Not Constant StressThousands of years ago, stress came in short bursts.A threat.A reaction.A recovery.Adrenaline up.Adrenaline down.Now?The stress never fully resolves.The notifications don’t stop.The news cycle doesn’t slow down.The scroll never ends.Your body is staying in a low-grade state of fight-or-flight…and then your child spills milk and you feel like you might explode.It’s not about the milk.It’s about the cumulative load.The Part We Don’t Talk AboutThere’s guilt, too.Guilt for turning the news off.Guilt for not being “in the know.”Guilt for having calm when others don’t.But guilt doesn’t regulate your nervous system.And it doesn’t help the world.You can care deeply about what’s happening and still protect your peace.Those are not opposites.If You’re Snapping More Than You Want To, Start HereNot with shame.Not with a new productivity system.Not with a 45-minute meditation you don’t have time for.Start with evaluation.Ask yourself:* What am I allowing into my day?* Is this input helping me live according to my values?* Do I need this much information to be a good mom? A good citizen? A good human?Most of us aren’t overwhelmed because we care.We’re overwhelmed because we have unlimited access to everything, all the time.And no one else is setting limits for us.PS. Don’t stop here. If you want super practical tools for evaluating your life and reducing decision fatigue, don’t miss our conversation with our favorite Productivity Coach Jennifer Sise. It pairs perfectly with this one.Small Ways to Regulate (Even in the Chaos)You don’t need a silent house.You need reps.* Leave your phone plugged in and walk into the next room without it.* Mute the group chat for an hour.* Decide when you will consume news instead of letting it consume you.* Go outside without your phone.* Do something with your hands (puzzles, folding laundry slowly, cooking, painting, organizing a drawer).It will feel uncomfortable at first.That’s not failure.That’s your nervous system detoxing from constant stimulation.The TruthYou cannot carry the entire world and the mental load of your household at the same time.You are allowed to:* Be informed without being flooded.* Care without being consumed.* Protect your nervous system so you can show up regulated for your kids.This isn’t about ignoring reality.It’s about remembering that your children deserve a regulated mother more than they need a mother who knows every headline.And you deserve peace in your own home.If this landed somewhere tender for you, we’d love to hear it.Have you noticed yourself snapping more because of the overwhelm on your phone?What’s helped you regulate lately?Reply here or send us a message on instagram.P.S. A big thank you to Pediped for sponsoring this episode. If you’re looking for developmentally healthy, truly kid-friendly shoes (that your nervous system doesn’t have to fight over), you can get 20% off your first purchase with code MOMREADY at pediped.com.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever found yourself doing the “invisible work” of your home while also trying to keep everyone alive, fed, and emotionally okay… this episode is for you.This week, Meredith, Hannah, and Anna talk about what’s underneath “I’m fine, I’ve got it,” and why asking for help often feels harder than just doing the thing (even when we’re drowning).Holly is traveling this week, but we’ll be circling back soon to unpack what this season of travel has been like for her, with and without Iris.What we’re really talking about: asking for help in real lifeThis episode isn’t a “make a better chore chart” conversation. It’s about the lived experience of motherhood where:* your brain is carrying 47 tabs open* your body is overstimulated by the end of the day* resentment starts to feel like a pressure in your chest* and you can’t even find the words to say what you need… until you’re already past capacityWe talk about how to notice what’s happening sooner, how to ask more directly, and how to do it in a way that invites partnership instead of defensiveness.Here are the big themes we address.1. “Take responsibility for the help you need.”That sentence hit because it’s not about blaming anyone—it’s about recognizing: my system is overloaded, and I need to say so out loud.Not passive aggression. Not storming around. Not silently keeping score.Just the brave, honest moment of:“I feel like I’m carrying a lot. Can we talk about where we can shift things?”Anna referenced a really helpful Big Little Feelings Substack post that captures the “default parent” tension so well. Here’s the link.2. The “behind the sink” resentmentMeredith named something so many of us feel but don’t always know how to explain:Sometimes our partner is “helping”… but we’re still the CEO of the kitchen (or the parenting, laundry, decisions, etc.).And when you’re always the person behind the sink, it can start to feel like your home runs on your constant, unending effort.The need wasn’t “help more.” It was more specific:“I want you to step in and take the main task. I’ll be the support role for a minute.”That clarity changes everything.3. A reframe that actually helps: “It’s too much for both of us.”We said it plainly: parenting is a lot, even with two engaged adults.When you start from “we’re both carrying a lot,” the conversation becomes:* less accusatory* more collaborative* more honest about realityAnd it opens the door to solutions that feel sustainable instead of combative.A few scripts you can steal* Name it early (neutral + direct):“I’m starting to feel overloaded. Can we look at what’s on my plate today?”* Share impact (without blame):“When I’m doing dishes after bedtime every night, I’m exhausted and we lose our time together.”* Ask for one specific shift (not a full life overhaul):“Can you take nighttime dishes this week? I can’t do the kitchen one more time today.”* Make the work an expectation, not a favor:“This is what our family needs to run. Everyone has a role.”Have a friend who could use these scripts? Share the post.Use tools that remove guessworkFair Play cards (mentioned in the episode) can help you see what’s being carried—and decide who owns what based on capacity and what each person doesn’t mind doing (or even enjoys).It’s not about “perfectly equal.” It’s about “clear and agreed.”Consider outsourcing without shameSometimes the most loving solution is: stop trying to do it all with zero support.Meal help. Laundry help. A babysitter for two hours. A cleaner once a month. Even one recurring outsourced task can change the temperature of your whole home.BTS: We also discuss inviting your kids to help you.A gentle reminder we all neededSome seasons are temporary.Some tasks are forever.And both are easier when you stop trying to be the only functioning adult in the building.If you’re feeling resentful, overstimulated, or chronically behind, it might not mean you’re failing.It might mean you need help. (And you’re allowed to ask for it.)We want to hear from youIf you have:* a script that works in your house* a way you split responsibilities that actually stuck* a system that lowered your mental load* or a future topic you want us to coverSend it to us. We really do build episodes and resources from what you tell us.And if something in this episode hit close to home and you want support, you can book a coaching session with any of us.Today’s episode is sponsored by Pediped—shoes designed to support growing feet, and they’ve been awarded the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association.If you’re looking for kid shoes with more room for toes to move (and a better fit for real-life kid feet), check them out. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free subscriber! Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Money is one of those topics that can feel instantly overwhelming, especially in motherhood, when you’re juggling a million decisions and your brain is already full.In this episode, we brought on Becca Gonzalez (The Money Girls) to make money feel simple, doable, and even kind of fun.Becca shares how she went from bringing $90,000 of debt into her marriage (and becoming a full-blown “every dollar has a job” enforcer) to building a money system that helped her marriage feel like a team again, and helped her clients stop avoiding their accounts and start making confident decisions.This is not a boring finance episode.This is a “your shoulders drop and you think, oh… I can do this” episode.We cover a lot…1. The money shift that changes everything: understanding what’s happeningBecca’s core message is simple:When you understand what your money is doing, you stop being afraid of it.So many of us are living in:* “I think we’re fine?”* “I don’t want to look.”* “It’s probably bad.”Becca calls this moving from drama to data.When you look at the numbers, it’s almost never as catastrophic as your brain has convinced you it is. And once you know what’s happening? You can actually move forward.Becca shared that in six years of coaching, only a couple of clients were in as bad of a situation as they feared.Most women are spiraling emotionally… while the numbers are manageable.And even if they aren’t? Once you know, you can build a plan.Clarity is power.Becca Tip: If you’re wondering where your money is going, she says historically it’s usually:* Groceries* Eating out* Convenience (hello, Amazon)The good news?Those are controllable.You don’t have to eliminate joy, just decide consciously.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.2. Investing in yourself: Is there a “golden ratio”?One of you asked:How much is too much to gamble on starting a business? Is there a golden ratio?Becca’s answer? There isn’t a magic percentage — but there are grounding questions:* Does money already feel tight?* Do you have any savings buffer?* Are you investing in retirement (or moving in that direction)?* Is this decision coming from fear/scarcity… or clarity and alignment?If you invest while panicked, you’ll likely pressure yourself to earn it back immediately, and that pressure can sabotage your growth.But if you invest from stability and intention? That’s a very different story.She also reframed ROI:Sometimes the return isn’t just financial.Sometimes it’s clarity. Confidence. Direction.And knowing what you don’t want to replicate.3. Getting on the Same Page With Your PartnerThis is where it got really good.Becca sees two common scenarios:* You share life, but not finances* You share life and finances, but you’re not alignedHer biggest lesson from her own marriage?You can’t drag someone into money peace.You can go first.You can model consistency.But you can’t control.Try This: The “Values List”Each partner separately writes 1–5 things they genuinely want to spend money on.Then come together and explain the why behind each one.It turns:“That’s dumb.”Into:“Oh… I didn’t realize that mattered to you.”It shifts the conversation from numbers to meaning.Holly shared that the Fair Play system has been helpful for dividing responsibilities (including money ownership) with less resentment and more clarity.If you’ve never seen it, it’s a card deck and system designed to help couples divide household labor intentionally. You can find it here.4. The Money Rhythms That Actually WorksA. If “weekly money meeting” makes you want to cry, Becca suggests:* Set a timer for 15 minutes* Have a tiny agenda* Make one decision* StopThat’s it.You can build from there. But start small.B. Envelope System vs. Counting UpBecca gave a mindset shift that blew our minds.When you use envelopes, you’re often counting down:“I only have $25 left.”When you budget intentionally, you count up:“I get to spend up to $X.”Same math.Very different psychology.C. Kids + Money: Skills Over Safety NetsWe also talked about saving for kids.529? Trusts? Custodial accounts?Becca’s perspective was powerful:Before opening up any kind of account, determine your family values.She goes much deeper into this on the pod.Becca’s also gave us one game-changing tip for teaching kids wise spending… and stopping the constant “Can I have that?” battle at checkout. Don’t miss this in the episode.A Perspective Shift We’re Still Thinking AboutHolly shared a fact that stopped us:The Equal Credit Opportunity Act passed in 1974, meaning women couldn’t independently access credit without a male co-signer until then.That’s not ancient history.If money feels intimidating… we are still culturally very new to full financial autonomy.Grace. For all of us.Connect With BeccaIf you NEED a Becca in your life or want to check out her offerings, Becca lives mostly on Instagram and is new to TikTok.Learn about her membership + free challenge to help you figure out where your money is going in about 15 minutes + offers: https://stan.store/mindherbusinessgirlsMoney Girls Membership ($67/month as mentioned in the episode) is linked through her Stan Store.Email Becca for 1:1 coaching inquiries:[email protected] to Suggest a Future Topic?We LOVE hearing from you.Email us at [email protected] Coaching?You can book a coaching call with any of the Get Mom Ready crew here.Question For YouWhen you think about money right now, what feels hardest:Clarity?Communication with your partner?Or consistency?Tell us in the comments.And if this episode helped you take even one brave step toward looking at your numbers, that’s getting mom ready. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Holly’s onsite with a client today, so it’s just Anna + Hannah + Meredith on the mic, talking about something that quietly shapes your whole motherhood experience:Friendship.Not “how to make more mom friends.”But how to know who’s safe… and how to be safe when someone hands you something tender.Because motherhood has a way of turning friendship into both:* lifeline* and landmineAnd a lot of us are carrying a low-grade question in the background of our lives:Who can I really bring my real life to?The word we’re side-eyeing: “loyalty”We started with a spicy-ish take from Anna:“Loyalty” feels like a weird expectation to place on friendship.Not because commitment isn’t beautiful, but because friendship isn’t a contract.When people say “I value loyalty,” sometimes what they mean is:* “I need you to prove you’re on my side.”* “I need you to show up the same way forever.”* “I need you to be available when I’m not.”* “Don’t change. Don’t drift. Don’t evolve.”And motherhood will absolutely test that.We talked about the difference between:* desire (“I miss you. I wish we had more time.”)* expectation (“If you cared, you would.”)That line matters.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.A safe friend doesn’t demand your nervous systemOne of the most freeing ideas in the episode:A safe friend understands that availability can’t be “drop everything, always.”Instead of “prove you’re loyal,” a safe friendship sounds like:* “Do you have it to give right now?”* “Can I put something here?”* “Do you want validation or feedback?”* “No pressure to respond fast, I just needed to say it.”That’s not distance. That’s respect.The most practical tool we sharedHannah brought in something we wish every adult friendship had language for:Before someone shares something hard, ask:What do you want right now?* Validation?* Support?* Feedback?* Suggestions?* A solution?* Just a place to vent?Because a lot of friendship tension isn’t “bad friend energy.”It’s misaligned expectations:* One person is venting.* The other is fixing.* Someone leaves feeling unseen.* Someone leaves feeling rejected.This one question fixes so much.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.How do you know someone is safe?We didn’t give a cute listicle answer… because honestly, you learn over time.But some clear “tells” came up:Safe friends tend to:* treat other people’s stories with care (no “she wouldn’t mind me telling you…”)* disagree respectfully (no contempt, no reduction)* handle your hard moments without pearl-clutching* let you be human without making it about them* disappoint you sometimes… and let you disappoint them sometimes (without punishment)Safety isn’t perfection.Safety is trust + emotional maturity + respect.Next week: money talk (anonymous + no questions off the table)We have a finance guru joining us next week and no questions are off the table and everything stays anonymous.Send anything you want us to ask to [email protected] and we’ll get answers on next week’s episode.Question for you (comment and tell us)When you think about a “safe friend,” what’s the #1 trait that makes you feel like you can exhale and be fully yourself?Sponsor: Pediped makes developmentally appropriate kids shoes. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off at pediped.com. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Somehow we all wear clothes every day…And yet most of us are still getting dressed on autopilot. In the dark. Half-awake. Wondering how we became the person who owns that many black leggings.In this episode of Get Mom Ready, Holly, Hannah, and Meredith sit down with Priscila Smith (author, Substack writer (Follow her page, Put Together), and actual style whisperer) to talk about why personal style is never just clothes. It’s identity. It’s presence. It’s self-respect. And yes, it’s also a very real way to feel more grounded in your day…even if you’re sweating at the playground chasing a toddler who refuses shoes.And listen…if you’re already thinking, “This episode is not for me,” because the idea of getting ready makes you want to want to crawl in a hole…this episode is especially for you.Priscila is not here to turn you into a fashion influencer or convince you to suddenly care about trends. She’s here for the moms who are tired, overwhelmed, living in default, and just want one small, doable way to feel like themselves again, without adding a 45-minute routine to their morning.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.What we unpack in this episode1) Why what you wear actually changes how you thinkPriscila introduces enclothed cognition—the research-backed idea that what you put on your body sends signals to your brain about who you are and how you show up. Translation: this is not vanity; it’s neuroscience.2) Comfort vs. default (these are not the same thing)Leggings are not the enemy. Autopilot is. We talk about how many moms aren’t choosing comfort, they’re choosing whatever is closest to the laundry pile.3) The most honest closet question you’ll ever be askedPriscila’s rule:👉 “Would you let a friend borrow this?”If the answer is no because it’s faded, stretched, or secretly your emotional support shirt from 2012…that’s data.4) The “three style words” that simplify everythingInstead of chasing trends, pick three words that anchor your style in this season of life (one can absolutely be a feeling word like “comfortable” or “practical”). Bonus: your words are allowed to change, because, you guessed it, you’re allowed to change.5) How to look put together in real-life mom clothesWe get very practical here:• fabric quality• fit (not tight, not sloppy)• monochrome outfits• clean sneakers• layers, jewelry, hair, makeupBecause “top + bottom” is not an outfit. It’s just clothes.6) Why this actually matters more than we thinkCaring about how you show up isn’t selfish, it’s grounding. When you feel more like yourself, everyone around you benefits too.If you want a starting point (no overhaul required)* Wear one outfit you love on purpose this week* Notice how you feel at the end of the day* Look at your laundry basket. What do you keep reaching for, and why?* Add a “third piece” to your go-to casual look* If you’re wearing black leggings…please bless the community with a lint roller 😄You’re welcome.Links & resources mentioned* Priscila Smith’s book: Put Together: It’s Never Just Clothes* Priscila’s Substack: Put Together* Instagram: @priscila_c_smith (one “L,” very important detail)* Sponsor: pediped — use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first orderPriscila also shared that she’s not currently taking 1:1 clients, but if that changes, you’ll hear it first through her Substack.If you loved this episode, send it to a mom friend who’s doing the “oversized tee + chaos bun + survival mode” thing on repeat…and doesn’t realize she deserves better than her 2014 faded leggings. Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Sometimes the most “emotionally healthy” thing you can do as a mom is admit the truth: you’re overwhelmed, you’re over-functioning, and social media is not helping.In this episode, Holly, Hannah, and Meredith sit down with Alli Worthington (author, speaker, business coach (Holly’s actual business coach!), and mom of five) to talk about what it looks like to become an emotionally healthy mom… so we can raise emotionally healthy kids.What we unpack in this conversation1) Why moms feel so much guilt (and why it’s getting worse)Alli doesn’t mince words: social media can be toxic for moms. Because your brain starts believing “everybody is doing everything,” when you’re really watching a highlight reel + a business model.Instead, find your trusted people, and go to them when things feel merky.2) Confidence doesn’t come first… reps come firstWe talk about how confidence is built through action, mistakes, and evidence over time, especially in motherhood. Stop believing the lie that one mistake can mess everything up and instead put effort into becoming the mom you want to be...over and over again.3) What “regulation” actually means in real lifeNot in a fluffy way. In a “how do I calm myself down before I snap” way.Tools that came up:* Counting down (and saying out loud what you’re doing)* Taking a pause before disciplining* Naming what’s happening in your body (hot, sweaty, escalated)* Preparing for your predictable “activation moments” (car line, dinner rush, bedtime)4) Overwhelm makes reactivity inevitableWe talk about how chronic overload pushes you into emotion-brain (amygdala) and takes your thinking-brain offline, which is why you say things you don’t even agree with later…and how to stop this hamster wheel.5) “Over-functioning” (aka: doing too darn much)One of the biggest mic-drop themes: over-functioning doesn’t just exhaust you, it quietly trains everyone around you to do less.Alli’s practical gut-check:If someone can do it 75% as well as you, let them.6) The long game: don’t make your kids your identityThis part matters: if your worth comes from being needed, you’ll accidentally rescue too much, and your kids won’t build competence or confidence.Get Mom Ready isn’t here to tell you how to parent. We’re here to help you stay connected to who you are while you’re doing it, so both you and your kids can thank you later.A question to sit with this weekWhere am I over-functioning right now… and what’s one “75% solution” I can accept without fixing it?Mentioned + linked in this episode (Alli’s stuff)* Alli’s book: Remaining You While Raising Them: The Secret Art of Confident Motherhood* Finding Your Secret Superpower Quiz* Alli’s Instagram: @alliworthington* Alli’s website: alliworthington.com* The Alli Worthington Show (podcast)If you’ve been doing everything and calling it “being a good mom,” consider this your permission slip (actually, your order) to stop over-functioning.And if you know a mom who’s drowning in decision fatigue and trying to do it all perfectly…send her this episode as a little love note. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Getting ready for maternity leave can feel like trying to plan for a season you’ve never lived before…because you are.In this episode, we kick off a multi-part conversation on preparing for maternity leave—starting with mindset and practical preparation (and keeping it very real about what you can and can’t control).What we covered:- Our different maternity leave experiences (corporate, clinical, startup, and flexible/fractional work)- Why mindset matters more than a perfect plan- Setting low (or no) expectations for the leave itself- Identifying where you fall on the spectrum: tightly wound vs. loose, and how to adjust- How to support your team/spouse/community before you step awayThe practical prep that helps most:- List what you do daily / weekly / monthly- Document simple processes and handoffs- Give people a little margin (babies love an early arrival…)Quote we loved: “Grace starts now—not the day maternity leave begins.”SponsorPediPed — kids’ shoes for every seasonUse code MOMREADY for 20% off at PediPed.comWant the full show notes + resources?We put the full breakdown (key takeaways, examples, links, and a shareable recap) on GetMomReady.com.👉 Head there for the complete show notes for Episode 17: GetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever thought, “If I could just get more organized, everything would feel easier,” this episode is for you.This week on Get Mom Ready, we’re welcoming someone we trust deeply and couldn’t be more excited to introduce to this community: Jennifer Sise.Jennifer is a time and productivity coach, author, podcast host, and mom who has worked with hundreds of women to help them stop managing time and start owning it. She’s also someone who understands motherhood seasons from the inside out, not from a pedestal.This conversation is honest, practical, and surprisingly gentle.It’s not about waking up earlier, doing more, or finally getting your life together.It’s about understanding why so many moms feel behind…even when they’re doing everything they can.The Real Issue Isn’t Time. It’s Decision Fatigue.One of the most grounding moments in this episode is when Jennifer names what so many of us are experiencing:When you’re making decisions all day long, you end up in chronic decision fatigue.So you default to survival mode.You get through the day, but you’re not building the life you actually want.That doesn’t mean you’re bad at time management.It means you’re tired.What You Want Is Actually PossibleJennifer gently but confidently reminds us of something many moms have stopped believing:What you want is possible.Not all at once.Not without trade-offs.And not without intentional decisions.But you don’t have to choose between being a present mom and having dreams.You don’t have to sacrifice what matters most in order to build something meaningful.You can have both.And the path forward doesn’t start with more effort…it starts with clarity.Why Structure Can Actually Feel Like ReliefThis is the counterintuitive shift many of us need:The more decisions you make in advance, the more margin you create.Structure isn’t about rigidity.It’s about fewer emotional spirals when life goes sideways (because it will).When time is already “set apart,” interruptions feel less personal and less overwhelming.The Recovery HourJennifer introduces a concept we immediately wanted to implement:A weekly recovery hour.A block of time where all the things that didn’t get done have a place to go.Because so much mom stress isn’t about unfinished tasks…it’s about feeling like there’s nowhere to put them.When there’s a plan for recovery, missed tasks stop feeling like failure and start feeling like life.The “Should” ShiftAnother powerful moment in this episode is Jennifer calling out how often we use the word should.I should be able to do more.I should be able to keep up.I should have this figured out by now.She invites us to replace should with want.Not to lower standards.But to bring honesty and ownership back into our choices.Because when you choose something because you want to, you carry it differently.A Gentler Question for the Week AheadInstead of asking:“What’s wrong with me that I can’t keep up?”Try asking:“What decision can I make in advance that would support me?”That one question has a way of quieting the noise.🎧 Listen to Episode 16 of Get Mom Ready for super practical tips on managing your time, cancelling the “shoulds” in your life, and more on the ever-freeing recovery hour.You can also connect with Jennifer here:* Instagram: @jennifersise* Podcast: In Nine Minutes* Book: It’s Only a Matter of TimeIf this episode resonated, share it with a mom who feels stretched thin right now.These conversations land differently when you don’t feel alone.You’re not behind.You’re getting ready in real time.With you,- Holly, Anna, Meredith, and Hannah Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’re entering the new year already feeling behind, tired, or a little disoriented, you’re not alone.At Get Mom Ready, we’ve been hearing this from ourselves and our mom friends this month. The holidays end, routines are disrupted, inboxes are full, and suddenly there’s pressure to feel refreshed, focused, and motivated…often overnight.But for most moms, the new year doesn’t start with rest. It starts with recovery.The Expectation vs. Reality GapJanuary is often framed as a “fresh start.” New habits. New goals. A clean slate.The reality of motherhood looks different.The holiday season is full emotionally, physically, and mentally. Even when it’s joyful, it can be exhausting. So when the calendar flips and life resumes at full speed, it’s normal to feel like you’re still catching your breath.Feeling behind doesn’t mean you failed the new year. It means you’re human.How Mom Guilt Sneaks InThis time of year is especially loud when it comes to guilt.Guilt for not being more organized.Guilt for wanting quiet after weeks of togetherness.Guilt for craving structure while also missing the slower days.Guilt for not feeling as grateful or energized as you “should.”We often see guilt masquerade as motivation, but it’s a fragile fuel. It pushes hard, burns fast, and leaves moms depleted instead of supported.Redefining What It Means to Be “Ready”At Get Mom Ready, we talk often about readiness but not the kind that demands perfection or productivity.Readiness might look like:* Allowing routines to return gradually* Choosing rest before resolution* Naming what actually feels supportive in this season* Taking one honest step instead of ten forced onesMore specifically, it looks like: * Holly Tate giving herself space to do a certain number of workouts in a week rather than specific days* Anna Baker finding joy in stretching rather than high intensity workouts * Hannah Castle, LCSW giving herself permission to take a rest day from training for her half marathon (which by the way, go Hannah! We are so proud of you!)* Meredith Mayo allowing herself to not pack jeans and choose cookies over the holidays because she wants to, knowing it’s just a seasonThen Hannah gracefully challenged all of us to have self-compassion as we work toward the habits we want to build, and Meredith reminded us that we all have many links in our chain that take energy.You don’t need a perfect plan for the year.You don’t need a word, a system, or a fully mapped vision.You need space to ease back into yourself.A Gentler Question for the Week AheadInstead of asking, “What should I be doing right now?”We invite you to ask, “What would support me in this season?”That question tends to lead to quieter answers but ones that last.You’re not behind.You’re not doing it wrong.You’re getting ready in real time.🎧 Listen or watch this week’s episode of Get Mom Ready for an honest conversation about mom guilt, rest, and entering the new year with compassion instead of pressure.If this resonated, consider sharing it with another mom who needs permission to slow down. This season is easier when we don’t walk it alone.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Happy New Year, friends! This episode of Get Mom Ready is intentionally raw, unproduced, and honest — which feels like the only appropriate way to ease back into life after the holidays. If you’re feeling rested…amazing. If you’re feeling behind, buried in email, and wondering how it’s already January 5th…you’re in very good company.As we step into a new year together, I wanted to pause and reflect on what resonated most with you in 2025. Because what you listened to — and kept coming back to — tells us a lot about what you actually need right now.What You Loved Most: Our StoriesThe top four most-listened episodes of 2025 were our personal stories:* My story* Anna’s story* Meredith’s story* Hannah’s storyAnd honestly? That means more than you know.I remember telling the team that it mattered to me that I went first — that I led with vulnerability. And then the morning my episode went live, I woke up thinking, What have I done? It felt incredibly exposed.Your response confirmed what Get Mom Ready is really about:We don’t need perfect advice. We need to know we’re not alone.Thank you for trusting us with your time, your stories, and your own quiet listening moments — probably while folding laundry or hiding in the car for five extra minutes.The Episode That Spoke Loudest (Fast)After our stories, the most-listened episode of the year was:Decision Fatigue, Mom Guilt, and the Power of Good EnoughWhat’s interesting? It was only released in November.That tells me everything I need to know. Decision fatigue is real. Mom guilt is constant. And “good enough” is something we’re all desperately trying to practice — even when it feels uncomfortable.You can expect us to keep talking about this in 2026. Because if you feel it every day… so do we.The Next Four Episodes That Resonated MostIf we group our stories together, here are the next four episodes that rose to the top — especially for moms who are tired, thoughtful, and navigating big internal shifts:* How to Find the Courage to Change Your Mind About Work and Motherhood* Principled Living: How to Live from Intention Instead of Reactivity* Choosing a Mindset That Works When Mom Life Feels Overwhelming* Get Mom Ready Live (our October live recording)That live episode still holds such a special place in my heart. We pulled it together quickly — partly because Meredith happened to be in Houston — and recorded it at SheSpace, which has been a meaningful space in my own growth journey over the last five years. Getting to share that moment with all of you felt full-circle in the best way.What’s Coming in 2026We’re already deep into recording for the new year, and I’m so excited about what’s ahead.You’ll hear from:* Alli Worthington — my personal business coach, powerhouse leader, mom of five, and someone I personally learn from* Priscilla Smith — a stylist and mom bringing such a refreshing perspective* Jennifer Sise — A business and productivity coach who will help us think differently about capacity and focusAnd of course, you’ll continue hearing from me, Meredith, Anna, and Hannah, having the conversations we wish someone had invited us into earlier.We Want to Hear From YouAs always, this community shapes where we go next.* What topics do you want us to cover?* What questions are you carrying quietly?* Would you be open to a live coaching episode — with one or all of us?If the answer is yes, let us know. Truly.Here’s to a grounded, honest, good-enough start to 2026. We’re really glad you’re here.You can find all episodes and updates here on getmomready.com — and we’ll be back in your ears very soon.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.With you,Holly 🤍 Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

We recorded this episode just days before it airs, which means we’re talking about the holidays in real time.Not the Pinterest version.Not the matching-pajamas, perfectly-timed-dinner, everyone-gets-along version.The real one.If you’re already feeling a knot in your stomach thinking about family gatherings, schedules, expectations, or how you’re going to hold it all together this season, then this episode is for you.Because here’s the truth:The holidays don’t just add joy. They add pressure.More people.More plans.More opinions.More logistics.More memories (good and hard).And for so many moms, it brings up the same quiet question every year:How do I stay connected…without it robbing my joy or burning myself out?Let’s Start With a ReframeOne of the most important moments in this conversation came early, when Hannah reminded us of something simple—but powerful:Most people are not trying to hurt you.That seven-thirty dinner invitation?The late-night gathering?The unrealistic expectation?It’s rarely malicious. Often it’s coming from people who haven’t had small kids in decades or who simply don’t live inside your daily reality.Which means we’re left with a choice:We can stew in resentment and dread…Or we can communicate.Not perfectly.Not scripted.Not “therapized.”Just honestly.Boundaries Aren’t About Pushing People AwayThis episode gently dismantles one of the most misunderstood ideas in modern motherhood: boundaries.Hannah said it best:“A boundary is something we do to stay connected, not to cut people off.”Read that again.Boundaries aren’t punishments.They’re clarifiers.They’re not about controlling other people—they’re about being honest about what we can do.A boundary sounds like:* “We’d love to come, but we need to leave by 6:30.”* “Five o’clock would work best for our kids—if not, we’ll still come and head out early.”* “This is what our family needs this year.”No drama.No moral high ground.No ultimatums.Just clarity.And clarity, when offered with kindness, actually protects connection instead of eroding it.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.When We Don’t Say Anything, Things Get Harder—Not EasierOne thread that kept resurfacing in this episode was avoidance.Avoiding hard conversations.Avoiding asking for what we need.Avoiding saying something because “it’s not a big deal.”Until…it is.As Hannah shared, estrangement often doesn’t begin with one huge blow-up.It starts with small, unspoken hurts that pile up over time.And while not every situation needs confrontation, a helpful question is this:Is this making me want to pull away?If the answer is yes, it may be worth gently naming.Not to create conflict but to prevent distance.The Holidays Add More Than We RealizeBeyond family dynamics, the holidays also bring a massive increase in mental load:* School events* Performances* Parties* Gift-buying* Clothes for themed days* Social obligations* Endless “shoulds”And social media doesn’t help.It can feel like everyone else is:✔ Doing everything✔ Loving every minute✔ Creating magical memoriesMeanwhile, you’re just trying to survive December without snapping.So we talked about permission.Permission to:* Skip parties* Say no to traditions that don’t serve your family* Choose a few meaningful things instead of everything* Let “good enough” be good enoughOne practical idea Hannah shared was sitting down as a family and deciding:What actually matters to us this season?Everything else is optional.You’re Allowed to Do Christmas Your WayThis episode wasn’t about lowering standards—it was about choosing them on purpose.It was about:* Planning ahead* Communicating early* Being on the same team as your partner* Naming triggers before you’re in the middle of them* Giving yourself grace when things aren’t perfectAnd most importantly, remembering this:There is no perfect family.There is no conflict-free holiday.There is only imperfect people doing their best.A Gentle Reminder as You Head Into the HolidaysYou don’t have to do everything.You don’t have to please everyone.You don’t have to explain yourself perfectly.You do get to:* Ask for what you need* Protect your energy* Choose connection over performance* Assume the best about others—and yourselfIf this season feels tender, heavy, or complicated—you are not behind.You are human.And you’re not alone.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.Listen to the Full EpisodeIn this conversation, we cover:* How to communicate boundaries without sounding defensive* Why clarity actually builds connection* How avoidance creates more stress long-term* Practical ways to simplify the holidays* How to opt out without guilt* Why “fumbling” conversations are better than none at allResources for YouIf you’re needing support beyond this episode, you can find all of our free resources here on GetMomReady.com including:* The Wellness Guide* The Medical Mom Guide* The Principles-Based Living Guide* Pumping on the Go…and more.Everything is free, and everything is there to support you wherever you are in your motherhood journey.From Holly Tate, Meredith Mayo, Hannah Castle, LCSW, & Anna Baker - Merry Christmas! May this season be honest, gentle, and just a little lighter than the last. 💛Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Today on Get Mom Ready, Meredith and Holly sit down with our dear friend and co-host Anna—her first full episode back after a couple months away navigating her daughter Emmie’s fourth heart surgery.And I can’t overstate this: her honesty, clarity, and resilience left both of us speechless (and a little teary).This episode is a conversation about what happens when life demands more of you than you ever thought you had.It’s about adrenaline and advocacy, fear and fortitude, and the very real stretch of motherhood that doesn’t happen in curated moments—but in hospital chairs, sleepless nights, and the tiny victories of a 3-year-old taking her medicine.It’s also about growth. Not the Instagram kind. The kind you only recognize when you look back and realize:“Wow. I handled that differently than the last time. I’m not the same person anymore.”Below are a few of the biggest themes from Anna’s story—offered gently, because if you’re in a season of crisis, transition, or simply feeling stretched thin…this episode will meet you there.1. Seasons Give Us Permission to Be DifferentOne of the most powerful things Anna said was this:“I can cognitively know it’s a season, but I don’t always give myself permission to live like it is.”Same, girl. Same.This time, she let herself do the season she was in:— Eat protein bars at midnight instead of real meals— Sleep upright in a hospital chair— Let the house go— Let her normal rhythms go— Let her expectations go— Let herself be held instead of holding everything togetherAnd in doing so, she found a grace and groundedness she didn’t even know she was capable of.What would shift for you if you stopped fighting your season…and started cooperating with it?2. You Don’t Know Your Capacity Until Life Pulls It Out of YouThis may be the quote of the year:“Our boundaries aren’t stretched and pushed—and we don’t grow—until our circumstances demand it.”Anna didn’t set out to be a superhuman.She didn’t choose this level of endurance.She didn’t wake up with a plan for how to stay connected, calm, and present through medical trauma.But when the moment required it, something in her rose.Not perfectly.Not without tears.Not without frustration.Not without breakdowns in bathroom stalls and whispered prayers for strength.But she rose.There is a kind of strength inside mothers that only emerges in fire. And it doesn’t arrive with fanfare. It arrives because it has to.3. Parenting Requires Curiosity, Not ControlA moment that stopped us in our tracks:Emmie refusing her medication—refusing it so consistently that the hospital wouldn’t discharge her.Every mom listening felt that tension:The stakes are high. You’re exhausted. Your patience is fried. You just want your baby to please take the medicine so you can go home.But instead of forcing or panicking, Anna—along with her support team—got curious.What would motivate her?How does her little mind work?What matters to her right now?When they realized the strongest motivator was separation from Mom, everything shifted.And later, when she learned “taking medicine = staying home,” the reasoning clicked.What a beautiful reminder:Kids aren’t giving us a hard time. They’re having a hard time.And parenting is less about control, more about creativity and connection.4. You Can Do Hard Things, But You Don’t Have To Do Them AloneAnna talked about the difference between this surgery and the last one.Last time:— Phillip had shingles— He couldn’t stay in the room— He lost his job— She felt isolated, overwhelmed, and underwaterThis time:— He was able to be present— He brought his science mind to medication decisions— They operated as a team— They supported, relieved, and uplifted each otherAnd somewhere in the mix—of prayer, personal growth, and simply time—something healed between them.Not magically.Not in a straight line.But enough to carry them through one of the hardest seasons of their lives with unity and tenderness.This episode is a reminder that marriage in crisis doesn’t have to collapse. Sometimes, it becomes the lifeboat.5. Growth Isn’t Perfection—It’s ProgressOne thing we deeply appreciate about Anna: she made it clear she wasn’t a saint in that hospital room.She broke down.She got frustrated.She lost her temper.She complained.She was human.But she saw her growth.She noticed the difference in her mindset.She noticed the new strength inside herself.She noticed the gentleness she extended to her own heart.She noticed she was becoming someone more rooted, more resilient, more aware.Progress, not perfection.Always.(We’re putting that on a mug. Or a sweatshirt. Or Anna’s forehead. TBD.)If You’re a Medical Mom—or a Mom in Crisis—You Are Not AloneIf this episode stirred something tender in you, please know:You don’t have to walk your hard season alone.Anna has created incredibly thoughtful resources for medical moms, available for free right here on GetMomReady.com.Meredith has her wellness guide.Hannah has grounding and mindset tools.Holly has her working-mom and household-systems resources.You can find all of it here:✨ GetMomReady.comEverything is free. No paywall, no hoops.Scroll a bit—articles and videos mix together on Substack—but everything is there waiting for you.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Listen to the Full EpisodeYou’ll hear:• The moment Emmie understood “medicine = home”• How Anna managed her mental health while being literally unable to leave her daughter’s side• How she and Phillip strengthened their marriage through trauma• The surprising joy she found in being a temporary stay-at-home mom• Why seasons matter—and how to live inside yours with more grace• And yes, the story behind the infamous “beef water” protein powderSponsor LoveA huge thank-you to our sponsor Pediped — use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order of high-quality children’s shoes.If this episode touched you, please share it with a friend who needs to feel less alone today.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.We’ll see you next week, mama.You’re doing so much better than you think.💛Holly, Meredith & Anna Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever found yourself standing in the kitchen at 5:30 p.m. wondering, “What on earth do I feed these children?” — or debating screen time rules, or trying to squeeze a workout into the tiniest slice of your day — then you know that motherhood is one big, long chain of decisions.And not just big decisions.The tiny ones, the repetitive ones, the ones that never end…those are the ones that quietly wear us down.In this week’s episode, we explore the everyday negotiations moms make with our kids, our partners, our schedules, and most importantly, ourselves. And we kept coming back to three themes: decision fatigue, mom guilt, and the surprising freedom of choosing “good enough.”Below is a recap of the biggest takeaways.The mental load isn’t about time — it’s about brain space.We talk about mental load all the time, but this episode brought it down to earth.It’s not just doing the thing, it’s thinking about the thing:* deciding what to cook* deciding whether to send lunch to daycare* deciding which show is appropriate* deciding when you can possibly work out* deciding whether the house needs cleaning or the kids need your attention more* deciding if this is the week you finally meal plan (…probably not)As Hannah said in the episode: “It’s not time — it’s brain power.”The brain power it takes to sort through a million tiny choices all day long leaves us tapped out, irritated, and sometimes questioning whether we’re even doing a “good job.”And that’s where the value vs. cost lens becomes a lifeline.Value vs. Cost: A simple way to make decisions easierMeredith introduced this idea beautifully: Every decision has a value and a cost.For example:The meal planning exampleA mom who values eating around the table may choose sheet-pan meals over elaborate dinners because the cost (time + mess + mental energy) is too high in this season.Another mom may value ease and peace in the evenings, so she chooses mac-and-cheese some nights with zero guilt.Both are right.The daycare lunch exampleFor Holly, the cost of prepping Iris’s food every day is higher than the value she’d gain by sending healthier options. So she chooses the daycare meals — and names it as a decision she feels good about, not guilty about.The screen time exampleFor Hannah, the constant decision-making around TV — What can they watch? For how long? Is this appropriate? — was draining her whole afternoon.So she decided: No TV on school days.The value: less stress.The cost: more art projects and a messier house… but worth it.When we’re honest about what we value in this season, costs become easier to accept.Good Enough Is Good EnoughThis phrase came up repeatedly.Not as a cop-out.As a grounding truth.“Good enough” means we stop chasing some imaginary ideal of the perfect mom — the one who cooks organic meals, keeps the house tidy, creates magical routines, and still manages to train like an athlete.“Good enough” gives you permission to choose what matters today and let the rest be…good enough.As Meredith said:“Name it and move on.”Name what season you’re in.Name what you’re choosing.Name what you’re letting go of.And move forward without shaming yourself.Remove decisions wherever you canA big theme of this episode was reducing unnecessary decisions, not because we’re weak, but because we’re human.Where can you streamline?Where can you create defaults?Where can you outsource?Where can you eliminate a recurring decision altogether?For Holly, it was incorporating a post-daycare-drop-off walk so she doesn’t have to choose when to move her body.For Hannah, it was eliminating weekday screen time so she doesn’t have to police it.For Meredith, it was releasing the pressure to train like an athlete and embracing the season she’s in: walking, Pilates, and baby-on-hip strength training.Sometimes the healthiest choice is simply the one that keeps you from burning out.A takeaway for you this weekWhere are you carrying unnecessary decision fatigue?* Meals?* Screen time?* Laundry?* Workouts?* House tasks?* Your kid’s school choices?* Weekend plans?* Routines?Ask yourself:* What do I truly value in this season?* What is the real cost of trying to live that out?* What decision can I remove, simplify, or delegate?* Where can I choose “good enough” and let the guilt go?Motherhood becomes a lot lighter when we stop performing and start deciding with intention.Thanks for reading Get Mom Ready! This post is public so feel free to share it.A reminder: You’re invited into our communityIf you want support, structure, and resources for this kind of principled, grounded motherhood, our Get Mom Ready community is full of tools to help you live this out at your own pace.You don’t have to consume everything.It’s not a course.It’s a buffet.A tribe.A resource library for whatever you’re facing this week.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

This week’s episode started a little… off the rails. 😅 Anna was out, Holly couldn’t remember what episode number we’re on, and we hadn’t prepared a topic ahead of time for today’s conversation.And honestly? That was perfect.Because where we landed was exactly what so many moms are living in:* Transitioning from a demanding job into staying home* Wondering how not to create “new bosses” for yourself* Feeling both grateful and restless in a new season* Trying to figure out what your actual capacity is now that life looks differentWe ended up having a really honest conversation about capacity, seasons, and being a kind boss to yourself.In This Episode, We Talk About:1. When Your Job Changes but Your Internal Boss Doesn’tMeredith shares about a coaching client who’s leaving a high-capacity job to become a stay-at-home mom. Her big question:“How do I not make new bosses for myself at home?”We talk about:* How easy it is to carry the same pressure, urgency, and “shoulds” into a new season* The idea that wherever you go, you take you with you* How to notice when you’re recreating a pressure cooker in a place that was supposed to be restful2. Bringing the Best of Your Old Season Into the New OneWe circle back to Hannah’s Principled Living Guide and how it can help you ask:* What from my previous job/season do I want to bring into motherhood?* What rhythms, routines, or expectations do I want to gently let go of?* What actually matters for this season of our family, not the imaginary ideal in my head?Hannah shares a simple example: “tidy times” with her kids instead of cleaning all day, every day. Little containers of order instead of letting cleaning boss you around.3. The Guilt of Paying for Childcare (and Feeling Like You Must “Earn” Every Minute)We go there.Hannah talks about:* Paying for childcare and feeling like every single hour has to be “income producing”* The paralysis of having one free hour and not knowing whether to run, eat, organize, or rest so you do none of it and then judge yourself later* The invitation to disappoint the voice in your head that says you must be maximally productive at all timesMeredith names it so well: sometimes you have to let that inner voice be disappointed so you can actually live the life you say you want.4. The Danger of Going “All In” on One IdentityHolly shares a “hot take” she’s still working out:* Women who go all in on being a full-time stay-at-home mom or a full-time working mom can sometimes ignore a big, important part of themselves* When that part feels unfed or unseen, it can leak out as resentment, misery, or the sense that “everyone is miserable”* The goal isn’t a perfect balance; it’s honesty:* What part of me feels fulfilled right now?* What part feels undernourished?* Is there a small, creative way to honor that part in this season?5. Extra Time vs. Extra CapacityHolly shares about leaving her full-time job and realizing:* There’s a difference between having time on your calendar and having energy in your body* You can have open blocks on your calendar and still feel totally spent* Or, like she’s feeling now, you can have extra energy and not quite know where to put itWe talk about treating that extra energy with curiosity instead of urgency:“What do I want more of, not just what else can I cram into this day?”6. Seasons, Not Life SentencesWe keep coming back to this idea:* Some seasons you wake up at 5am and work out.* Some seasons you sleep every second you can because…baby.* Some seasons you volunteer for everything.* Some seasons your only “extra” is survival.And that’s allowed.You’re not signing a lifetime contract with any one rhythm. You get to pivot, reset, and change your mind as life changes.Practical Ideas We MentionedThese came up organically in the conversation and are too good not to list out:* Use our Principled Living Guide to name what matters in this season and what you’re okay releasing.* Create “tidy times” instead of cleaning constantly—short, intentional cleanups instead of an all-day mental load.* Make a list on your fridge: “Things [Your Name] Likes To Do.” When you get an unexpected pocket of time, you don’t have to remember from scratch.* Give yourself a personal, non-kid, non-work goal:* Run a race* Take a class* Grab quarterly coffee with someone * Learn something just because you want to* Think in seasons: What do you want more of this fall/winter/spring? Walks? Friend time? Rest? Creative work? Start there.* Be the boss you wish you had. If you’re “the boss of you” now, can you be a kind, compassionate one?A Little Love Note to Anna & Emmie 💛We recorded this episode on the day baby Emmie was in surgery, and we felt Anna’s absence so deeply. Good news - Anna and Emmie have been back home for a few weeks and Emmie is recovering really well. We’re beyond grateful! Also: Anna, we know you told us the episode number. Multiple times. In writing. We accept our fate. 😂Resources Inside the Get Mom Ready Paid CommunityIf this episode stirred something in you, our paid community has tools to help you actually do something with it:* Hannah’s Principled Living Guide – To help you identify your core principles and filter decisions through them* Meredith’s Postpartum Wellness Guide – For taking care of your body and nervous system after baby* Holly’s Pumping On-the-Go Guide – For working/pumping moms trying to make it all work* Anna’s Medical Mom Guide – For moms navigating medical journeys with their kidsWe’ve heard from some of you that it feels like a lot of resources (which, honestly, we take as a compliment). Think of it as a buffet - take what you need for this season and leave the rest for later.Reflection QuestionsIf you want to go deeper after listening, here are a few journal or voice-note prompts:* Where am I currently overwriting my true capacity with “shoulds” or old expectations?* What part of me feels fulfilled in this season—and what part feels undernourished?* If I could choose one small, kind way to be a better boss to myself this month, what would it be?Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Huge thanks to pediped for sponsoring this episode and helping us keep this community going.Our listeners get 20% off their first order with code: MOMREADYShop their shoes at: https://pediped.comIf you grab a pair, DM us pics of your kiddos in their new shoes so we can cheer with you! Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Traveling with kids isn’t a vacation—it’s an adventure with snacks. In this episode, we trade the glossy reels for real-life rhythms: the “loaf of bread” baby who snoozes through flights, the squirrely toddler who doesn’t, and the car-trip rules that keep everyone safer (and saner). We dig into choosing your trip’s purpose on purpose. Is your goal character-building memories or maximum kid joy? That single choice clarifies everything from schedules to expectations. You’ll hear our tips for staying sane with your spouse (“same team” energy), how humor and narrating out loud regulate everyone’s nervous system, and the small logistics that buy big peace. Plus our hottest tip: pack a “Colleen Bag.” Tune in to find out what that golden nugget is.In Today’s episode* Real trips, real talk: Chicago with a mobile toddler, solo-parent flights, and a 9-hour red-eye with an 8-month-old (yes, the scream happened—and the flight still ended).* Mindset reframe: Hard ≠ bad. Travel builds resilience for you and your kids. You get to choose what that looks like.* Model it out loud: Simple narration scripts to teach coping to your kids (“This is hard, and it will build character that I want”).* Partnership on purpose: A pre-travel “same team” pact or safe word to cut the snippy spirals.* Environment hacks that buy margin: Right hotel/floor, monitor-to-patio range for post-bedtime connection, and when public transit beats parking + car seats.* Block out the noise: Parent for your child, not the crowd—other people’s opinions don’t ride home with you.* Empower the kid: Make them a teammate with clear roles that unite you instead of frustrating you.Things We Love + Links* Book 1:1 coaching with Hannah, Meredith, Holly, or Anna—schedule directly on the site.* 👟 Sponsor: Pediped — use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order at pediped.com.* Inspo from two of our favorite women—Helen Keller and Sara Blakely. * Subscribe to Get Mom Ready for Sunday-night episode drops + resources: getmomready.com* Join the paid community for guides and group coaching (Meredith’s Wellness Guide, Holly’s Pumping Guide, Hannah’s Principled Living, Anna’s Marriage-in-Parenting toolkit).Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Practical Reflection Questions* What’s one mindset reframe I can borrow this week?* Which two hacks from this episode would help us most on our next trip?* Where can I reduce friction (hotel choice, transit, packing) to create one pocket of connection?* What narration line will I practice with my kid to model regulation?* What’s our couple safe word or pre-trip agreement to keep us united?* What goes in our version of the Colleen Bag (name 3 items)?* Where am I parenting for the crowd instead of for my child—and how will I block out the noise? Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

This week we’re turning down the shame around nutrition and remembering food is fuel. Hannah is traveling (we miss you, friend!), so it’s Holly, Anna, and Meredith—our certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner—digging into how food, wellness, and mom life all collide.Meredith brings her best tips for navigating the overwhelm of nutrition in real life—when you’re short on time, not sure what to believe, or just tired of thinking about what’s for dinner.We covered everything from morning hunger and cortisol to whether peanut butter counts as protein (Meredith has thoughts) and the importance of morning light.But most importantly? Spoiler: it’s not about perfection, it’s about paying attention to how your body feels and making small, doable shifts.Things We Loved This Week* Meredith’s favorite peanut butter – Maranatha (don’t tempt us with a spoonful straight from the jar)* Naked Collagen in your coffee – extra protein without changing the taste* Prime Protein Powder – an easy grab for busy mornings* Naked PB – peanut butter powder for more protein, less fat* Kelly LeVeque, Best-selling author, celebrity holistic nutritionist and wellness expert – If you’re not already following her, go do it now. * 👟 And thank you to our sponsor, Pediped! Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order at pediped.com.Practical Reflection Questions* What would it look like for you to add just one simple nutrition habit this week?* When do you notice your body feels best fueled? Can you create a repeatable system around that?* Are you holding yourself back with all-or-nothing thinking? What’s one “middle ground” choice you could try today?✨ Want Meredith’s full Wellness Guide and extra resources from this episode? Join the Get Mom Ready paid community.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

This week we’re diving into a topic that feels tender, vulnerable, and oh-so-universal: body image in motherhood. From Target pajama fails in the hospital to Pelotons collecting dust in the garage, we’re getting real about what it looks like to live in (and love) our changing bodies.In this conversation, we cover:* Why “the weight will just fall off” might be the least helpful phrase ever* Shame in the closet—why keeping old jeans in sight isn’t actually motivating* Joyful movement vs. punishment: how to reframe exercise* Permission to let movement look different in different seasons (walking counts!)* How compassion—not shame—actually helps us show up better in our bodiesWe laughed (hello lanolin-stained tops 🙈), we cried, and we wrestled honestly with how much pressure we put on ourselves to “get back” instead of asking, what’s actually good and kind for me in this season?Things We Loved This WeekSponsor Love: This episode is brought to you by Pediped. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order at pediped.com.💡 Other shoutouts from this convo:* Mindset by Carol Dweck (strikes again 🙌)* Peloton (don’t sponsor us 😂)* ClassPass (DO sponsor us please 🙌)* Evelyn Tribole & intuitive eatingPut it Into ActionSome actionable ways to rethink body image with kindness this week:* Audit the “shoulds.” Ask yourself: what am I telling myself I should be doing that isn’t actually helping me? (Think Peloton guilt, old jeans in the closet, or meal plans that feel like punishment.)* Choose fun first. If movement bored you today, try something that sparks joy instead—walking, dancing in your kitchen, or a new class. Joyful movement counts.* Reframe your closet. Keep only the clothes that feel helpful right now. Box up or donate the rest so your daily choices don’t come with shame attached.* Replace shame with compassion. When the critical voice pops up, remind yourself: “If shame worked, it would’ve worked by now. Compassion is the way forward.”💌 Want the reflection questions and key takeaways delivered straight to your inbox each week? Subscribe at GetMomReady.comGet Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

A huge thanks to everyone who came to the live recording! It was the first time we’d ever done an in-person recording, and we had tons of fun. It was so special for Holly to be hosting it at SheSpace, a place that has meant so much to her growth, personally and professionally over the last five years. Hannah Castle, LCSW walked us through an exercise of three questions to helps us identify the principles we want to center on: * When I’m at my best as a mom, what’s true about me?* What do I want my kids to feel in our home?* If I could hold onto one principle in hard moments, what would it be?We also invited everyone to subscribe to us here at GetMomReady.com and consider joining our paid community where we do live coaching calls and have a buffet of resources for you to pick and choose from on your motherhood journey. Until next time! Holly, Hannah, Meredith, & AnnaP.S. A HUGE thanks to Case Mundy, our audio engineer and producer of today’s show that made the recording and live stream possible. If you’re looking for an audio engineer to take your event to the next level, email Case here. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hey, Get Mom Ready crew! This week we’re talking mindset—not as a buzzword, but as the everyday attitude + beliefs that guide how we show up… for ourselves, our kids, and each other.In this episode, we dig into:* Surfing & the “messy beginning”: why humiliation reps are actually growth reps (Mer’s Hawaii saga 🏄‍♀️).* Growth vs. fixed mindset (thanks, Dr. Carol Dweck): what it looks like for moms in real life.* Words matter: reframing “I have to” → “I get to,” and why your self-talk sets your ceiling.* Check the facts vs. ride the feelings: a quick reality check tool when the spiral starts.* Belief-checking: noticing the stories under the story (and when to phone a therapist/friend).* Whose voice is in your head (and in your AirPods)? Curating inputs on purpose.* Principled living x mindset: aligning tiny choices (like packing lunches) to what you value.* It’s okay to be… annoyed: emotions can coexist with love; seasons change.* Perspective > comparison: how to borrow inspiration without borrowing shame.* Two reflection prompts to take into the week:* Whose voices am I listening to right now?* How can I live today in a way I’d want to live again?Resources we love* Mindset by Carol Dweck — The research behind growth vs. fixed mindset. For moms and kids, try the “yet” shift (“I can’t do this… yet”), praise effort/strategy over outcomes, and model trying new things (even when you feel like a buffoon on a surfboard). TED Talks and summaries are great if you’re nap-trapped.* Quiet by Susan Cain — This one celebrates introverts (kids and adults). Super helpful for understanding different energy needs at home, designing calmer routines, and giving your quieter kid (or quieter self) room to thrive without guilt.* Pediped Shoes — Because mindset also shows up in how our kids move through the world. We love Pediped for giving little feet healthy support (and bonus: they’re actually cute).* Get 20% off your first order with code MOMREADYTry this (quick wins)* Fact Check in 30 seconds: “What do I know? What am I feeling?” Name both. Act from facts, care for feelings.* Voice Audit: Write the 3 voices you’ll let shape your parenting mindset this season (a real-life friend, a book/podcast, and your own inner compass).* Tiny Reframe: Swap one “have to” for a “get to” today and notice the shift.Coming Soon…Alli Worthington, Author of Remaining You While Raising Them, will be joining us on the pod in a few weeks. If you have questions for Alli, share them with us at GetMomReady.com, and be sure to tune in when her episode drops.🎧 Tune in to Episode 7 wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell us your favorite takeaway—and which voice you’re choosing to turn up this week.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

If you’ve ever eaten a rushed lunch on a Zoom call, sighed at the amount of unread texts on your phone, or over-explained your “no,” this episode is for you.In this week’s episode, we’re talking about principled living and what it looks like to make decisions from your values instead of every demand, meltdown, or email ping.Meredith calls it building your “internal operating system.” Hannah frames it as trusting your intuition. Together, we unpack what it means to decide before the moment so that when life gets chaotic, we can show up grounded and confident—whether that’s in the boardroom, the playroom, or the carpool line.Tune in to hear: • Why principled living starts with knowing yourself (and why that takes practice) • How boundaries really work: they’re about what you will do, not forcing others to change • Detaching from reactivity, not from people—staying connected while staying calm • The “walking out of myself” test: how to tell when you’re betraying your own values • Why disappointing others is sometimes the most principled thing you can doThings We Love (and Mentioned) • Boundaries by Henry Cloud & John Townsend - The OG “say no without feeling like the worst human” book. We unpack how boundaries aren’t about controlling others—they’re about deciding what you will do. • Extraordinary Relationships by Roberta Gilbert - An oldie (with a very 80s cover) but a mind-blower on living from your values instead of reactivity. Meredith says it’s the book you’ll throw across the room and then pick back up.• Pediped (sponsor): Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order at pediped.com. Iris picked the orange-and-pink Flex this week and we’re obsessed.Quick & Actionable Steps From the Episode:* When did I feel most “reactive” this week? What value of mine felt threatened in that moment?* What are the top 3 values I want to lead with this season (e.g., presence, honesty, margin, generosity)? Why these three?* Where am I walking out of myself? (Look for the pit-in-your-stomach, procrastinated text, or over-explaining “no.”)* What is one place I’m outsourcing decisions to “shoulds” (internet, relatives, group chat) instead of my own discernment?* What disappointment am I willing to tolerate in others so I can stop disappointing myself?Hannah created this Principled Living Guide for our paid subscribers to have a practical list of questions they can work through to build their own list of principles they want to live by.Scripts You Can Steal* Capacity-honest no: “I wish I could. I’m at capacity this week, so I’ll pass. Let’s try for next month.”* Boundary-in-action (not control): “If the conversation turns disrespectful, I’m going to end the call and we can try again later.”Lunch on Zoom: “I’m eating so I can stay focused—I’ll mute while I chew.”* Parenting pause: “I’m not ready to answer. I’ll think about it and circle back after dinner.”* Friend disappointment (and it’s okay): “I know this is a bummer. I’m choosing rest tonight so I can show up well tomorrow.”Come hang with us: • Upgrade to the paid community at GetMomReady.com for behind-the-scenes content, reflection prompts, and practical templates we’re creating. • Join us on Instagram @GetMomReady—we’d love to hear the principles you’re living by this fall Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hey friend—this week is our first topic episode! We’re talking about the courage to change your mind about work and motherhood, how to tell intuition from anxiety, and why giving yourself room to pivot is a gift to you and the people around you.Along the way, we detour into finding ways to engage in your own hobbies as a mom, color analysis (because yes, your cherry red can make you feel instantly more “put together”), and a mindset shift that beats the Saturday “mom guilt” spiral.In This Episode* Change your mind without the shame spiral. “This is the best decision for our family right now” can be true today—and different next season.* Intuition vs. anxiety. A simple check to spot the difference and choose your next right step.* Scarcity → abundance. Borrowing from Carol Dweck’s Mindset, we reframe Saturdays (and mom life) away from “I must make every minute perfect” to “I’m grateful for this day—and there are many more to come.”* Work, identity, and wholeness. It’s not either/or. You’re allowed to design a life that makes you feel more whole.* Friendly heads-up. If Meredith sounds a tad like a robot this week, forgive her—she was in Hawaii on a hotspot (dreamy backdrop, crunchy Wi-Fi). And yes, Meredith still isn’t on social media. Connect with her here.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Stuff We Mentioned* Color Analysis: Meredith’s Choice: House of Colour * SLUMBERPOD: Because sleep is everyone’s love language* Book: Mindset by Carol Dweck (fixed vs. growth—helpful for moms and littles)* Pediped: Our incredible sponsor - kid, parent, and pediatrician-approved footwear for children. Use code MOMREADY at checkout for 20% off your first order at pediped.com.Join us: Subscribe free at GetMomReady.com for weekly episodes. Upgrade to the paid community for templates, behind-the-scenes, and deeper dives on identity, capacity, and rhythms.Leave us a Comment: What’s one decision you’re reconsidering right now—work, routines, or otherwise? We’d love to cheer you on. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hi friends, it’s Hannah (your Mindset Mom).If I could sum up my story in one phrase, it would be intentionality. For me, that looks like belonging to yourself, trusting your intuition, and giving yourself room to pivot when life changes.But let’s be honest—living that way didn’t come naturally. It took a few career pivots and a hurricane (literally, Hurricane Harvey) to push me toward what I now know is my true calling: helping moms increase their capacity, find joy in motherhood, and love their kids well.Layer on top of that: nursing struggles, two babies just 26 months apart, and the constant pressure I put on myself to be “more capable”—and you get a season that felt heavier than I imagined.There were bathroom floor moments. There were “can we survive on one income?” phone calls. There were tears in the pediatrician’s office and days I wondered why it felt like I couldn’t “do it all”. But slowly, through therapy, faith, and a whole lot of stubbornness, my capacity did grow. And along the way, I learned that “hard” doesn’t mean “wrong.”In this episode, I share honestly about all of it—the disappointment, the turning points, and the small, grace-filled wins that helped me find joy again. My hope is that it feels like sitting with a friend who says: you’re not crazy, it really is this hard… and you’re doing better than you think.In this episode, you’ll hear:* Why knowing to yourself matters more than pleasing everyone else* How I literally worked myself out of a job—and why that was the right pivot* The circus that comes with having 2 under 2 (potty-training a toddler while nursing a newborn, anyone?)* How I learned that it’s okay to not be okay* The grief of hitting capacity but still longing for a bigger family* Why supporting moms first is the most powerful way to support kids* Why I don’t buy into the idea that motherhood has to be miserableEpisode Shoutouts* We love our friends at pediped®. They make shoes designed with pediatric science to support growing feet—because supportive shoes = thriving kids. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order.* Birds & bees- The Instagram account that saved me during the “how are babies born?” phase with my kids. Highly recommend.We’ve now shared all four of our stories—mine, Meredith’s, Anna’s, and Holly’s. Starting next week, we’ll move from introductions into topics—the everyday realities of staying grounded as moms while raising kids. First up: personal fulfillment, the impact of external voices on decision-making, and integrating work and motherhood. I can’t wait.With you,HannahPS: Subscribe at GetMomReady.com for weekly episodes (and behind-the-scenes extras if you’re part of our paid community). And come say hi on Instagram @GetMomReady—I’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hi friends—Meredith here 👋 (your resident Wellness Mom and Enneagram 7 who, as you’ll learn, process tough emotions through humor. Welcome to the ride).Today I’m sharing my journey to motherhood—four miscarriages, a moldy bathroom (yep), a detour into NaPro Fertility, acupuncture needles, and finally: letting go. I wish I could tell you I “zen-surrendered.” Actually, I rage-surrendered. And it was enough.What I learned: your intuition often whispers the answer long before the experts do. Mine said “mold + acupuncture.” Once I did the work—and then stopped trying to control every lab result—my body surprised me. Cue my perfect little chubby prince, Ethan. 🍼In this episode, I get into:* Intuition > protocol: The moment “mold + acupuncture” landed while I was on an ultrasound table* Rage-surrender: Why my turning point wasn’t candles and breathwork; it was “I’m done.”* Finding the right care team: Hopeful, human practitioners > sterile “cautious optimism”* Humor as a lifeline: Taylor Swift on blast, a bathtub, and one very necessary whiskey 🥃* Being “right on schedule”: The most annoying, and strangely comforting, truthStuff we mentioned (and why I love it):* Sponsor: PediPed.com — Comfy, foot-healthy shoes for little walkers. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your order.* e.l.f. Halo Glow Filter — Hannah’s “did you get a facial?” foundation dupe. ( She did not. She just glows.)* 🩺 NaPro (Natural Procreative Technology) — The fertility specialty I tried; helpful for investigating hormone patterns like progesterone.If you’re in the thick of it…You are not alone. Whether you’re testing, trying, grieving, or resting—your timeline isn’t behind. You’re right on schedule, even if that sentence makes you want to throw a shoe at me today. (Fair.)Come hang with us* Say hi on IG @GetMomReady* Paid folks: My Postpartum Wellness Guide is available to you now.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Next week on Get Mom Ready…We’re dropping our last intro episode before we dive into weekly topics: Hannah Castle (our Mindset Mom) shares her story on her career in social work and experience in motherhood, including the challenges of breastfeeding, handling multiple young children, and the emotional and mental toll it takes. It’s validating, practical, and so compassionate.With you,Meredith 💛P.S. Friendly boundary: please skip the “I’m so sorry” replies—send me your story, your questions, or your favorite healthy snack recipe instead. 😉 Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hi, I’m Anna—mom to Emmie, wife to Phillip, and the operations arm behind Get Mom Ready. Today I’m sharing something that no mama-to-be plans for: our journey with congenital heart disease (CHD) and what it’s looked like to embrace being a “medical mom.”In this episode, I talk about finding out during pregnancy that something was wrong with our daughter’s heart, navigating multiple hospital stays and surgeries, and how we’ve learned to hold the tension of making everyday life magical while still parenting with boundaries. If you’re walking through medical unknowns—or love someone who is—I hope this conversation helps you feel seen and a little less alone.In this episode, I share:* The day we learned about Emmie’s congenital heart disease and how quickly life changed* What hospital life really looks like (including the 2:22 moment I’ll never forget)* How community carried us—and practical ways to let people help* Marriage in the middle of medical trauma: what supported us and what we learned the hard way* The phrase I’m living by right now: “It’s not that serious” (and when it is)Links & mentions* Get Mom Ready: Subscribe free or join the paid community → GetMomReady.com* Paid members get my Hospital Packing List (what to bring for everything from a quick stay to the long hauls).Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.* Pediped Footwear (today’s sponsor): Thoughtfully made kids’ shoes from sandals to sneakers → pediped.com* Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order.* Jones Road Beauty: Bobbi Brown’s clean makeup line we keep mentioning → jonesroadbeauty.com* BrüMate: The handled, twist-to-close water bottle Meredith won’t stop talking about* Berne Brown on The Tim Ferriss Show - How to Save Your Marriage* Radical Candor (the book that changed my life)* Our Favorites List: A single place for everything we rave about on the show → free access at GetMomReady.com* Join us on Instagram for extras and to share your story: @GetMomReadyFor the moms in the thick of itIf you’re facing CHD or any kind of medical unknown with your child, your feelings are valid. Let people help. Take the walk. Eat the ice cream for breakfast sometimes. And when you can, remember: not everything is that serious—but the love you’re building absolutely is.Paid community members can grab my Hospital Packing List today at GetMomReady.com. I made it so you don’t have to think when you’re already carrying so much.What’s next?Next week, we hear from Meredith Mayo (our Wellness Mom). She gets vulnerable sharing never-before-heard stories about her road to motherhood and the hardship of walking through miscarriage. Meredith opens up about the grief, the grit, and how her Enneagram 7 spirit helped her find light even in the darkest seasons. At the heart of it all? Learning to trust your gut as a mom. Don’t miss it.Follow along on Instagram: @GetMomReady—Anna Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

It’s here, friends—the very first episode of Get Mom Ready (A production of The Ready Network)!We’re four moms, in four different phases of motherhood, with one mission: to help you stay grounded while raising your kids.In this first episode, Holly (👋 hi, that’s me!) shares her story of becoming a mom—the joy, the heartbreak, the pumping saga, and why I believe moms deserve a space that’s not just about parenting, but about you.No matter what phase of motherhood you’re in—we want you to feel seen here.What you’ll hear in today’s episode:* Why we created Get Mom Ready (spoiler: because moms are more than “just moms”).* My story of miscarriage, loss, and eventually welcoming our daughter Iris 🌈.* The reality of exclusively pumping for a year (portable pumps for the win 🙌).* How each of my co-hosts—Hannah Castle, LCSW, Anna Baker, and Meredith Mayo, MSW, NTP—brings a different perspective to this community.Products & Mentions from this episode:* Jones Road Beauty Miracle Cream (we’re manifesting that Bobbi Brown collab ✨).* Jimmy Fallon’s kids’ books: Everything is Mama + Everything is Dada.* Pediped 👟 – Our very first sponsor! Shoes designed by a mom, for babies, toddlers, and kids. Use code MOMREADY for 20% off your first order at pediped.com.(Psst. access our running list of favorite mom-approved products here.)Join the conversationWe’d love to hear from you! Share your biggest challenge as a mom, or what you want us to talk about next, in the discussion board on GetMomReady.com.And don’t forget—you can subscribe for free weekly episodes, or upgrade to our paid community for bonus content and deeper conversations.What’s next?Next week, Anna gets real about her journey as a medical mom—navigating hospital stays, surgeries, and the perspective shift it brought to her parenting. You don’t want to miss it. Follow along on Instagram here. Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe

Hey friend,Motherhood is messy, beautiful, and overwhelming — and if you’re anything like us, you’ve probably wondered: Who am I in the middle of all this?That’s why we created Get Mom Ready — a podcast (and community!) about staying grounded in who you are while raising your kids.I (Holly!) teamed up with three amazing women who each bring a unique perspective:* Hannah Castle — our Mindset Mom (therapist & social worker)* Meredith Mayo — our Wellness Mom (whole-person health enthusiast)* Anna Baker — our Medical Mom (resilience is her superpower)* And me, your Working Mom (making work work in a way that feels right for you)Each week, we’ll bring you real, raw, and relatable conversations for moms, by moms — the kind that make you feel seen, help you exhale, and maybe even laugh-snort into your coffee.Because motherhood doesn’t come with a manual, but it can come with a community. And that’s what we’re building here.Episode one drops Monday.We’re so glad you’re here. 💛Why Join the Inner Circle?Our weekly podcast is free for every mom — but if you want to go a layer deeper, that’s where our Inner Circle comes in.As a paid member, you’ll get:✨ Juicy behind-the-scenes moments we can’t share on the main feed✨ 2 times a week, we'll share our most helpful tools, templates, and resources for real mom life✨ Exclusive conversations with all-star guests we know you’ll love✨ A front-row seat to the laughs, the tears, and the “same here” momentsThe best part? Every mom is welcome. Whether you’re a Type A scheduler, a Type B free spirit, or somewhere in between — you belong here.Because motherhood is better when we don’t do it alone.Join the inner circle as a paid subscriber:Get Mom Ready is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a paid subscriber.Holly, Hannah, Meredith & AnnaGetMomReady.com Get full access to Get Mom Ready at www.getmomready.com/subscribe