Moms, be honest…how’s your relationship going?In today’s MomCast, we’re steping back from the day-to-day of mom life and dive into something just as important (if not more!): our marriages. We spend so much energy on parenting that our partnerships can easily slip to the bottom of the priority list.Our guest is Jocelyn Freeman, one half of the marriage-psychologist duo behind Meet the Freemans. Jocelyn and her husband, Aaron, coach couples around the world and are known for breaking down real-life relationship scenarios on Instagram. Jocelyn got us very clear on what actually strengthens a marriage and the work it takes for that to happen.We learn some incredibly practical, eye-opening tools to get us started, plus:* how holding a weekly family meeting can keep you and your partner aligned on needs, feelings, and expectations* what a “love deposit” is and why building a surplus creates relationship security* whether it’s ever okay to go to bed angry (the answer may surprise you)* why commiserating about our marriage can often turn into complaining…and something much more harmful* why mentioning divorce during conflict shuts down important conversations and keeps couples from resolving the real issuesMake sure to follow Jocelyn @meet_thefreemans and check out her website www.meetthefreemans.comYou can also hear more from Jocelyn and Aaron on their podcast "Empowered Couples"Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by the Digital Factory of NBCUniversal at Stamford Studios.

Moms, only you know when your family is complete. Deciding how many children to have is a deeply personal decision, and frankly, one that requires no approval from family and friends.  Yet, judgement abounds…That’s why Shannon Eng, a California-based mom, created the platform Only, Not Lonely Kids.  She and her husband have one child, by choice, and she celebrates other families who make the same decision.Shannon spoke so honestly about her feelings and, truthfully, even moms of multiple kids will agree with much of the realities of motherhood we struggle with. Listen in to hear:* the common misconceptions and stereotypes surrounding only children—and why most of them aren’t true* how Shannon and her husband decided together on having one child and how they navigated outside pressure* the inspiration behind creating Only, Not Lonely Kids and how the community supports one-child families* sharing the emotional and practical factors that went into their decision to stop at one child…and yes, mental health and finances both matter!.* encouragement for other parents to trust themselves, honor their limits, and define family size on their own terms.Learn more about Shannon on IG @onlynotlonelykids - give her a follow!Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by the Digital Factory of NBCUniversal at Stamford Studios.

Moms, we get it…there are moments in motherhood when we put ourselves last but ignoring health concerns is never ok. In fact, suffering in silence is dangerous; symptoms like painful periods, chronic fatigue, and pelvic pressure need attention.Dr. Karlie Provost Goldstein and Dr. Leigh Rosen are experts in treating endometriosis and fertility issues at ESSE Care. ESSE is a practice on the east coast in New York and Fairfield County, and on the west coast in Los Angeles.The doctors specialize in listening to their patients and often find that what we consider “normal” is anything but. On MomCast, they share the red flags that most doctors are dismissing, plus:* why heavy, painful periods might signal more than just fluctuating hormones after having kids* why advocating for ourselves is critical so our symptoms aren’t ignored* the groundbreaking approach to diagnosing and removing endometriosis * how barriers to fertility can often be solved with minimally invasive surgery and little down time* why it’s critical to share the long history of symptoms and experiences to get a proper diagnosisYou can learn more about ESSE Care at their website and on their Instagram account @essecaresurgerywellness. And make sure to follow Dr. Goldstein at @patientsurgeonmama and Dr. Rosen @leighrosenmdFind us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by Stamford Studios Digital Factory.

Moms, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! The holidays are magical and exciting. This season can also be overwhelming when the to-do list includes decorating, gift buying, hosting, baking and more.Add on the demanding relationships with family and travel…it’s no wonder we can feel depleted amidst the celebrating.That’s why Psychotherapist Niro Feliciano is holding our hand this holiday season, with a new book that offers daily practical advice and encouragement.It’s called “All is Calm…ish!” How to Feel Less Frantic and More Festive During the Holidays” and she shares her best, most practical trips for staving off stress and choosing joy:* how to choose fewer, more meaningful activities so your family can actually enjoy each one more* the case for amping up your selfcare when your schedule gets busier* the long-lasting effects of staying self-regulated and how to find micro-moments of joy * why it’s ok for kids to have a long wish list and why we should encourage it* the unexpected reason Niro’s book was released a year later than expected…and why it’s a blessing!Each of the 31 chapters in the book take us from Thanksgiving to Christmas Day-a true daily guide to savoring this season.Make sure to follow Niro on Instagram @niro_feliciano and find out more on her website NiroFeliciano.com.Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by Stamford Studios Digital Factory.

Moms, it’s so fun to meet a celebrity and find she’s as warm and relatable as we’d hoped. We know you’ll think so too!In today’s episode, we sit down with the incredible Katherine Schwarzenegger Pratt. A New York Times bestselling author, Katherine gave birth to her third baby and children’s book, “Kat and Brandy,” all in the same year. Katherine shares her inspiration for this heartwarming story, plus she opens us about the joys and challenges of motherhood in such a vulnerable way. She also shares a glimpse into her marriage to Chris Pratt and some gems of wisdom that will stay with you long after you listen:- her focus on spending quality time with each of her kids in light of this busy season of life- her “family first” philosophy and her mission to recreate the incredible childhood she enjoyed- why communication is the key to success in her marriage (and why a program called Imago has been a gamechanger!)- how transcendental meditation (TM) changed her mental health during the stress of parenting- how she approached becoming a step parent and the village that helps her succeed in the roleYou can learn more about Katherine and her books on her website, and don’t forget to check out her podcast “BDA Baby” and follow her on IG @katherineschwarzeneggerFind us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by Stamford Studios Digital Factory.

The stereotype of the stay-at-home mom is finally getting a rebrand thanks to Neha Ruch.A mom of two, Neha leapt onto the national stage with her bestseller “The Power Pause,” a primer for ambitious mothers leaning into family life.This success, she says, didn’t happen overnight; she planted seeds over a decade ago through her online community “Mother Untitled.”Neha’s work offers stay-at-home moms the dignity they deserve through some simple truths: raising children is a full time job and it requires support and respect.She urges moms to redefine success, plus:* how to strategically navigate a resignation to keep communication open and stay connected to an industry* how to set goals through your downshift to invest in your next career move* shining a light on mothers in the “gray area” that mix both work and motherhood on their own terms* why being a “lady who lunches” and networking goes beyond leisure and creates opportunity* conversational scripts to explain a pause and open the door to future optionsNeha’s curiosity allows for a refreshing, honest conversation that will benefit any mother. Be sure to follow her on Instagram @neha_ruch and head to her website thepowerpause.com to learn more.Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by Stamford Studios Digital Factory.

Moms, there’s no topic more popular amongst parents than sports! From the hectic schedules, to expensive equipment, and demanding travel, we pour a LOT into our kids’ athletics.Why?Well, we love watching our kids compete.But we’re also investing in our relationship with our kids and the future adults they will become.That’s why Jonathan Carone founded Healthy Sports Parents-a platform that’s amassed a cult following on his belief that youth sports are not about winning.Jonathan is a coach and father of two kids, based in North Carolina, who says sports are about building wiser, strong adults. In our conversation, he urges us to:* normalize failure; you win or you learn* stop feeling triggered by your kid’s performance* decipher whether a child really wants to quit a sport, or just needs a break* respectfully disagree with a coach rather than criticize* learn exactly what to say to your child on the car ride home from a gameJonathan will definitely have you thinking differently about your child’s next practice or game.You can find him on IG at @healthysportsparents, at his website healthysportsparents.com and the Healthy Sports Parents podcast.Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.comPodcast facilities provided by Stamford Studios Digital Factory.

Moms, don’t believe everything you think!Neuroscience proves that the critical voice in your head, or that of your child, is just a default mode-and knowing this can be life changing.Our guest today is psychologist Dr. Betsy Holmberg, author of Unkind Mind, who teaches us how to flip the switch on negative self talk. Dr. Betsy builds up our superpower to recognize this nagging voice and shut it up:*  understand why we’re so hard on ourselves and then catch ourselves when we fall into a judgy mode* learn the science behind two parts of our brain: the Default Mode Network (DMN) and the Central Executive Network (CEN)* the personal struggles that inspired Dr. Betsy to uncover the research and change the course of her own life* our power to explain these strategies to our kids and give them tools to quiet their own inner critic* how to stop ruminating in its tracks, allowing for clearer decision-making and better sleepTo learn about Dr. Betsy Holmberg, head to her website and find her on Instagram @betsyholmbergFind us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, if you’re questioning the power of a motherhood renaissance, Brooke Lyons is proof that it’s empowering and alluring.Having lived in Hollywood for 20+ years, the actor and mother of two has officially ended her pick-me era. Brooke is trading in the titles of “low maintenance” and “agreeable” only to find more freedom and self-love on the other side. You might know Brooke from recurring roles on “The Affair,” “Two Broke Girls,” and Hulu’s “Reasonable Doubt.” Adding to her fascinating career on screen, she’s leaning into writing, and hosts her own podcast, “Say More with Brooke Lyons.”We are totally celebrating this shift toward authenticity and Brooke offers us permission to take the same journey:-replace those seemingly obligatory social events with plans that make you say “hell yes!”-release the need to control and fix everything, leaving room for more joy -learn the exact moment in motherhood that spurred Brooke to prioritize herself again-and why scheduling herself on the calendar was critical-escaping the titles of “helpful” and “palatable” to make your needs and wishes explicit (even if they’re inconvenient for those around you)-the process of creating new dreams and redefining success as you evolve without judgement Find out more about Brooke at her website brookelyons.com and follow her in Instagram @brookielyons Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, if the thought of the college admissions process feels either overwhelming or confusing (or both), we’ve got answers!This week on MomCast, we sit down with Kate Stone of Kate Stone Prep.  While her team is based in Fairfield County, CT, they mentor students all over the world to crack the code on college admissions. From essays to application strategy, Kate breaks through the myths and mystery to share exactly what colleges are looking for. What sets Kate apart is a spectacular mix of candor and compassion; she knows how to motivate her students and challenge them to achieve their greatest potential.Kate has her finger on the pulse of college trends and breaks down the new model for admissions. You’ll hear her insider take, plus:*how to propel your student from excellent to elite status*why more activities aren’t actually better (think depth over breadth!)*how to create an unstoppable student by identifying gaps in your kid’s skills, and how to fix them*why starting a coaching program early allows time for experimentation and building expertise*the truth about SAT/ACT scores and why they’re as critical as ever This podcast is presented in partnership with Kate Stone Prep. Make sure to follow her on Instagram @katestoneprep or head to her website www.universitygurus.comFind us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, we are so far beyond the days of money being taboo.  We are the CFO’s (Chief Financial Officers) of our families and we need to talk about money MORE. MomCast asked our listeners for some of your most pressing financial questions -and we found answers!Bridget Wyatt and Lindsay Sabel are trusted Financial Advisors at Merrill Lynch. They’re also moms who understand so well that conversations about money are tough.  We loved sitting down with them for a no-nonsense conversation about the facts and why it’s so critical to have a trusted team around you.We covered all the how-to’s for building wealth for ourselves and the next generation:choosing between a saving account and a brokerage account gifting money to your kids within state limitspaying children for work (without making the IRS skeptical!)protecting your child’s wealth from bad spending habits or divorcebuilding a will so your money goes where you want it toYou can find out more about Lindsay Sabel and Bridget Wyatt (The Sabel Wyatt Group) here on their website.Find us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, there is no one better to kick off Season 2 of MomCast than the CEO of The Local Moms Network Layla Lisiewski! When Layla became a mom, she couldn’t find the mom community she craved so she built one. Ten years later, her company is comprised of 100+ moms in suburbs across 30 states, each bringing moms the best resources and relatable content.  Layla dreamt of “giving moms the gift of time” and she does.Layla is a mom of 4 kids and exudes calm and confidence-her signature blend! As a more seasoned mother (her oldest is now a teenager) her process has shifted some, while her values remain front and center.We learned so much about Layla’s approach to parenting and the foundation she’s laying for her family.Here are just some of her incredible nuggets that you’ll want to duplicate:* Tossing out perfection and focusing instead of doing something completely* Outsourcing a pain point: why hiring help for dinner alleviated so much stress* Navigating the teen years and prioritizing listening over fixing* Celebrating other adults who nurture and inspire our kids.  Layla shares an encounter with her lacrosse coach who changed her trajectory.* Finding magic in the car rides and their unexpected bonding opportunityFind us at www.thelocalmomsnetwork.comIG: @thelocalmomsnetworkEmail: demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, how did you know you were done having kids? Or maybe you’re still deciding if your family is complete. Truth is, there is no one who can answer that question but you. Frances Largeman-Roth had three kids in her 30’s, along with a booming career as a registered dietician nutritionist, an author, and a TV contributor. Even with a very full life, the pull to have another child never left and she gave birth to her fourth baby at the age of 50! We chatted with Frances about what it took, both physically and emotionally, to bring her dream baby earthside. She also teaches us how to stay healthy and vibrant so we can all keep up with our growing kids. Frances is an open book and shares:- the process of choosing an egg donor to become pregnant - her daughter’s unexpected birth story that included surgery at just 2 days old- the (priceless) self-assuredness that comes with being an experienced mom- the shift in family dynamics as her older kids adjusted to a new baby (hint: it got rocky!)- Frances’ strategy for longevity in our 40’s, 50’s and beyond-from sunscreen to fiber intake to the supplements she swears byBe sure to follow Frances @franceslrothrd and check out her website franceslargemanroth.comFind us at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, if you have a passion for something, don’t let anything get in the way of sharing it! That’s the advice of Ereka Vetrini, a foodie turned recipe creator whose personality, and warmth helped her surpass a million followers on Instagram over the last year! Gen X and Millennials probably remember Ereka from Season 1 of The Apprentice that debuted 20 years ago! This mom of two teens is a breath of fresh air and is unabashed in pursuing her passion for food and connection. Leaning on her Italian roots, Ereka puts her own twist on cooking and parenting-with no gatekeeping!Ereka first chatted with host Demetra Ganias last year and she is a must-listen if you missed it. As you’ll hear in this endearing conversation, Ereka is honest and invigorating.Hear her takes on:*why now is still the perfect time to jump into the creator economy and grab your slice of the audience…2 billion users and counting!*why her age (late 40’s and loving it!) is an asset to her success*asking your partner to take on more at home so you have space to pursue your career (with inspiration from Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg)*how to get picky eaters to give new meals a try*all of Ereka’s beauty must-haves and splurges, from skincare to workoutsEreka has a special discount code for MomCast listeners for her line of beautiful aprons-a kitchen staple that is both fashionable and functional!Visit her brand By Ereka and use code FRIENDS20 for 20% off your favorite apron.Don’t forget to follow her @erekav and check out her website cookingwithereka.comFind us at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, feeding our kids can be the most basic and most mind-boggling task we have as parents. What seems simple and intuitive can be stressful! After all, our approach and habits literally teach a child how to eat.Exclusive breastfeeding or introducing foods?When do we start foods?Purees or solids?On top of all the questions, we have to discern between science and chatter.That’s why Dr. Krupa Playforth is such a saving grace!A board-certified pediatrician, Dr. Playforth is also co-author of the acclaimed book “Baby Leads the Way: An Evidence-Based Guide to Introducing Solid Foods.”She sets the records straight with so much powerful wisdom, like:*staying away from rigid choices, allowing you to experiment and react to your child’s specific needs*the difference in approaches between starting with purees and smaller whole foods*the important distinction between gagging and choking*why Dr. Playforth calls out the children’s vitamin industry and encourages parents to beware*manageable nutrition goals for older kids too (think big picture!)You can find more on Dr. Krupa Playforth on her website thepediatricianmom.com and make sure to follow her on IG @thepediatricianmom Find us at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, this may be controversial, but it’s a fact: pushing a child to succeed can put their mental health at risk.It’s all outlined by Jennifer Breheny Wallace in her breakthrough book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic-and What We Can Do About It. Today’s episode is a wake-up call to draw the line between encouragement and pressure.  We spoke with Jennifer when MomCast first launched and this encore presentation deserves not only a second listen, but ongoing conversation with our spouses and partners.An award-winning journalist and author, Jennifer uncovered links between children at “high achieving schools”-both public and private-and mental health issues like anxiety and depression.Most importantly, she offers hope! She reframes how we talk to our children about their role in their family and in their community, and answers the looming question that parents have to answer: “so what now?”Wallace insists this is not an anti-achievement book.In this must-hear episode she shares her trademark tips for how to frame success, including:*teaching parents what “mattering” means*specific steps to then help your child matter beyond their grades, skills, and talents*the vocabulary to help disconnect a child’s achievement from their self worth*why household chores are critically important and how to link chores with your child’s individual strengths*how we moms can bolster ourselves, in turn boosting our child’s knack for resilience  The studies Jennifer sources in her book include a 2019 government report and further research by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.You can follow her @jenniferbrehenywallace or learn more at jenniferbwallace.comJoin us!Find us at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, I have a teenager! All the cheesy cliches feel so appropriate right now (Time has wings! They grow up so fast! Blink and they’re big!). In fact, all three of my kids have summer birthdays so it’s a reflective season. Learning to be a better mom hasn’t been easy, but I’m here and I’m wiser. And who would have thought the mom who once wished her kids would grow up just a bit faster is desperately clinging onto the little kid phase! Today I’m opening up about:* celebrating my “momiversary” and the perspective that passing years bring * my textbook case of “infantalizing” my youngest kid (don’t come at me!)* how spoiling my kids and breaking generational habits can look eerily similar* the IG trend that proves you’re a great mom! Who knew social media could be this reassuring??As Season One of MomCast nears an end, we’re so grateful for all of the amazing guests who have fed our mama souls. Their wisdom, humor, and resilience are EVERYTHING!Help us spread the word! Rate and review MomCast and share an episode with a mom who needs it. Remember, when we know better, we do better.Find Demetra at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Moms, making a baby is not for the faint of heart! Conceiving, carrying, and delivering a baby is so difficult...and it's just the beginning of finding health for a baby and for US. This episode is an encore presentation that, truly, is lifesaving for moms. Do I have baby blues or postpartum depression?Do I need medication to ease my anxiety and is it safe during pregnancy?Questions like these are completely normal-and the exact reason why motherhood and mental health should always be in the same sentence.Dr. Jennifer Okwerekwu has dedicated her career to this synergy!Dr. O, as patients affectionately call her, is a Harvard-trained reproductive psychiatrist who sees patients from before they conceive to long after they become moms. She is most passionate about erasing the “white-knuckling” that can sometimes define motherhood.As a mom of two young girls herself, she knows the stress and expectations we carry from both society and ourselves.In this incredible conversation, Dr. O brings agency and tranquility to our evolution. She reframes some of the most common concerns, like anxiety and judgment, and erases any possible stigma about reaching out for professional help. Whether you’re struggling or not, Dr. Okwerekwu is the boost that moms need as she - teaches us the definition of matrescence and the emotional stages of becoming a mother - validates the notion of birth trauma and birth disappointment and how to move forward with the stress that it leaves behind- nudges us to step out of the “stress soup” that is dangerous to ourselves and our children, both inside and outside of the womb- explains the changes in our brain that persist for years after having a baby, negating the idea of the “snap back” after deliveringYou can find Dr. O on IG @drjennifer_o or at her website coralpsych.comFind us at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

Trigger Warning: Adult TopicsMoms, raising kids takes courage and the tween & teen years make that clear really quickly. If conversations about drugs make you cringe and the thought of discussing sex has you delaying the conversation, today’s episode is for you. As Vanessa Kroll Bennett tells us, we can absolutely share with our kids just how nervous and uncomfortable we are! Vanessa is the co-author of a book and the co-host of a podcast called “That’s So Awkward!” Along with Dr. Cara Natterson, they teach parents how to handle the challenges of puberty. This episode-which is Part 2 of our far-reaching conversation-explains smart strategies to begin brief and effective conversations.Vanessa walks us through:* what fentanyl is and the strong boundaries we need to place around pills and powders* how Narcan is used to prevent possible overdoses* distinguishing between “where do babies come from?” and “the talk”* how to begin teaching consent at a young age* why anatomically correct names for body parts creates safety for childrenAnd if you missed Part 1 of our conversation with Vanessa, be sure to go back to Episode 39. You can find more wisdom from Vanessa @vanessakrollbennett and @less.awkward as well as lessawkward.comFind Demetra at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com

TIGGER WARNING: ADULT CONTENTMoms, if you have teens and tweens you’ve likely thought, “Yikes! This is SO awkward!” We totally get it. That’s why we’ve called in expert help on how to make cringey conversations more manageable. Our guest is Vanessa Kroll Bennett, whose book and podcast are called This is so Awkward! Vanessa is half of the duo behind an incredible platform (along with Dr. Cara Natterson) that tackles all things puberty.The list of hot button topics is long and nuanced, so we split this conversation into two parts. In this first half, we cover:* the Third Pancake Theory-what it means and why it’s so accurate* what an ACE (Adverse Childhood Experience) is and why they matter* guidance for locking up alcohol and prescription/OTC drugs in your home* when to start talking about safe sex and strategies to keep the conversation brief but effective* why good kids will make bad decision…and why it’s okYou can find more wisdom from Vanessa @vanessakrollbennett and @less.awkward as well as lessawkward.comFind Demetra at thelocalmomsnetwork.comFollow us on IG @thelocalmomsnetworkSend us your ideas for our next podcast!Email demetra@thelocalmomsnetwork.com