SUMMARY:

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman welcomes Jenna Gorman, a mom and food blogger, to discuss the beautiful mess of motherhood and the importance of cooking with kids. They explore the challenges of finding identity beyond motherhood, the joy of family meals, and the valuable life skills that can be taught through cooking. Jenna shares her journey from a food chemist to a stay-at-home mom and how she uses her blog to inspire other parents. The conversation emphasizes the significance of involving children in the kitchen, teaching them essential skills, and creating lasting memories through cooking together. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the themes of healthy cooking, family bonding, philanthropy, and the challenges of parenting. They discuss how cooking has become a fun and bonding experience for families, the importance of giving back to the community, and how to navigate tough conversations with children. The discussion also touches on finding balance in busy family life and launching new ventures, such as a blog dedicated to cocktails and mocktails.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Parenting can feel like an uphill battle, but it's a beautiful mess.
• Cooking with kids is a way to connect and teach valuable life skills.
• It's common for moms to experience an identity crisis after their kids start school.
• Involving kids in the kitchen helps them learn math, reading, and patience.
• Setting low expectations can make cooking with kids more enjoyable.
• Cooking can be a way to break gender stereotypes in the kitchen.
• Family meals are an opportunity to bond and create memories.
• Mistakes in the kitchen are learning opportunities for both kids and parents.
• Recipes can evolve to meet the changing needs of growing children.
• It's important for kids to see their parents pursuing their passions. Healthy cooking can be a fun family activity.
• Encouraging kids to try new foods fosters a love for cooking.
• Giving back to the community can be a family affair.
• Teaching kids about privilege helps them develop empathy.
• Involving children in philanthropy empowers them to care for others.
• Navigating tough conversations with kids is essential for their understanding.
• Finding balance in family life requires prioritization and flexibility.
• It's okay to say no and ask for help when needed.
• Creating new ventures can be fulfilling, even amidst a busy schedule.
• Taking breaks is important for mental health and family dynamics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Mommasota: Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood

01:27 Introducing Jenna Gorman: A Culinary Journey in Motherhood

03:46 Finding Identity Beyond Motherhood: The Transition

07:15 The Impact of Cooking: Connecting with Kids

10:30 Teaching Life Skills Through Cooking: A Hands-On Approach

19:05 The Importance of Reading and Math in the Kitchen

23:05 Evolving Recipes: Adapting to Growing Kids' Needs

24:32 Healthy Cooking and Family Bonding

27:39 Giving Back: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

30:38 Empowering Kids Through Philanthropy

36:51 Navigating Tough Conversations with Kids

41:13 Finding Balance in a Busy Family Life

44:50 Launching New Ventures: Cocktails and Mocktails

GUEST RESOURCES:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/landof10000recipe

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/land.of.10000.recipes/

Website - https://landof10000recipes.com/

SUMMARY:

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman and guest Michelle Hamilton discuss the multifaceted journey of motherhood, particularly in the context of significant life changes brought on by COVID-19. They explore the transition from a nursing career to becoming a stay-at-home mom and entrepreneur, the challenges of raising children with a focus on holistic and natural living, and the evolution of Michelle's business, Dandelion Naturals. The conversation emphasizes the importance of balance in parenting, the shift towards eco-friendly products, and the realities of entrepreneurship.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Motherhood is a beautiful mess that varies for everyone.
• Life changes, especially during COVID, can alter parenting paths.
• Holistic living can start before pregnancy and shape parenting choices.
• Finding balance in parenting and health is a continuous journey.
• Starting a business can stem from unexpected life changes.
• Natural products can simplify life and reduce toxins.
• It's important to teach children about food and health without creating insecurities.
• Emotional intelligence plays a key role in parenting decisions.
• Entrepreneurship often involves navigating unknowns and learning as you go.
• Starting small with eco-friendly choices can lead to significant changes.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Mama Soda: Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood

01:01 Navigating Life Changes: From Nursing to Motherhood

06:58 Holistic Parenting: A Journey Towards Natural Living

13:29 Finding Balance: Parenting, Health, and Lifestyle Choices

15:12 The Birth of Dandelion Naturals: A New Entrepreneurial Journey

26:50 Product Line and Eco-Friendly Practices: A Commitment to Nature

GUEST RESOURCES:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dandelionnaturals/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dandelion.naturals/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-hamilton-546454266/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@dandelionaturals

Website - http://www.dandelionnaturals.com

SUMMARY:

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman welcomes Patricia Sjulson, a mother and entrepreneur, to discuss the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with running a business. They explore the transition from retail to content creation, the importance of family time, and practical tips for traveling with a toddler. The conversation emphasizes the unpredictability of parenting and the need for flexibility in both work and family life. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the multifaceted experience of motherhood, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for balance, the joys and challenges of family travel, and the importance of instilling values in children. They discuss the realities of being a working mom, the influence of motherhood on personal growth, and the need for authenticity in social media portrayals. The conversation highlights the significance of equal partnerships in parenting and the importance of pursuing passions while managing family life.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Parenting is a unique journey for every individual.
• Balancing family and work can feel like an uphill battle.
• Transitioning from retail to content creation was a natural progression.
• Having a supportive partner is crucial for work-life balance.
• Family time is essential, especially during busy schedules.
• Traveling with a toddler requires preparation and patience.
• Snacks are key to a successful road trip with kids.
• Creating a routine helps manage work and family time.
• It's important to adapt as children grow and change.
• Every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. Balance in motherhood is a continuous journey, not a destination.
• Family-friendly amenities in travel accommodations are often overlooked.
• Motherhood enhances awareness of life's details and fosters patience.
• Social media often presents an idealized version of parenting.
• Pursuing passions requires sacrifices and dedication, especially for moms.
• It's essential to show the behind-the-scenes reality of family life.
• Instilling values of kindness and respect in children is crucial.
• Equal partnerships in parenting are vital for a healthy family dynamic.
• Every parent faces challenges, and it's important to adapt to changes.
• Success takes time and effort; everyone starts somewhere.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Mommasota: Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood

00:58 Meet Patricia: Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

05:03 From Retail to Content Creation: A Natural Transition

10:03 Navigating Work-Life Balance as a Mompreneur

14:50 Traveling with a Toddler: Tips and Tricks

20:12 The Importance of Family Time in a Busy Schedule

22:35 The Balancing Act of Motherhood

23:01 Family-Friendly Travel Experiences

28:30 Motherhood's Influence on Perspective

36:20 Pursuing Passions as a Working Mom

41:03 Instilling Values in Children

GUEST RESOURCES:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/winnieluwanders

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/winnieluwanders/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-hamilton-546454266/

Website - https://winnieluwanders.com/