100 episodes. One big, beautiful letter straight from the heart.

In this special milestone episode of The Running Wine Mom, I’m recording the words I hope my kids will listen to one day—the lessons I’ve learned about motherhood, ambition, dreams, resilience, and love.

This isn’t just a celebration of the podcast’s growth. It’s a reflection on how building something from scratch while raising a family has changed me, stretched me, and shaped the life I’m living today.

Inside, I’m sharing:

• What drives me to keep showing up, even on the hard days
• Why balancing ambition with motherhood is messy but worth it
• What I wish I knew before becoming a mom
• How chasing a dream changes you from the inside out

Thank you for being here—whether you’ve been listening since Episode 1 or this is your very first time.

✨ Here’s to showing up. Even when it's messy. Especially when it matters.

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe for more real conversations about motherhood, personal growth, creativity, and living life on your own terms.

— Samantha, The Running Wine Mom

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with Dr. Michael Goran—renowned researcher, professor, and co-author of Sugarproof—to uncover the surprising ways sugar impacts our children’s health.

From behavioral changes and brain development to gut health and obesity, this deep-dive conversation explores the real science behind sugar and what every parent should know. Dr. Goran breaks down how the microbiome plays a powerful role in shaping our kids' health, how hidden sugars sneak into everyday foods, and why moderation—not elimination—is the key.

Samantha and Dr. Goran also discuss practical, guilt-free tips for reducing sugar, how schools and communities can support better food choices, and why energy drinks might be doing more harm than good for young athletes. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to feed your family better, this episode is your roadmap to making small, sustainable changes that truly matter.

Takeaways:

• Sugar can affect children's mood, focus, and long-term brain development
• The gut microbiome is closely tied to weight and metabolic health
• Gradual dietary changes are more sustainable than going cold turkey
• Artificial sweeteners aren’t always the healthier solution
• “Sugar-proofing” your home environment helps kids thrive
• Schools, communities, and policies all play a part in our children's health
• Parents can feel empowered—not guilty—when making food choices

This episode is sponsored by Ivory Tree Portraits! Don’t miss their one-day-only Mommy & Me Charity Event on April 26th in Wayne and Newtown, PA. Enjoy a 10-minute, kid-led session and one digital image with your $75 donation—all supporting The Kin Wellness & Support Center. Book now at ivorytreeportraits.com.

👉 Get the book Sugarproof by Dr. Michael Goran here: https://a.co/d/bXiGGJU

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom podcast, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with the hilarious and inspiring author Jesse Q. Sutanto. From her journey of balancing writing with motherhood, to the impact of fitness on her mental health, and the challenges of adapting her beloved books for the screen, Jesse shares it all. Tune in as they chat about the power of storytelling, how being a mom has shaped her productivity, and what's next on her writing journey, including the much-anticipated sequel to Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers. Packed with humor, real-life insights, and plenty of inspiration, this episode is a toast to life's little victories.

Connect with Jesse Q. Sutanto:
Instagram: @jesseqsutanto
Shop Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping (on a Dead Man): Shop Vera Wong's Guide to Snooping

Connect with Samantha Cieslinski:
Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom podcast, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with Dr. Sana Mujahid, Manager of Food Safety Research & Testing at Consumer Reports, to talk about their recent investigation into harmful contaminants in baby formula.

They break down what was tested, how it was tested, and what the results actually mean for parents. From lead and arsenic to PFAS and BPA, Dr. Mujahid explains how these contaminants end up in formula, what Consumer Reports found, and why most formulas are still safe.

You’ll also hear about:

• The difference between powdered and ready-to-feed formulas
• How environmental factors impact formula safety
• What to do if your child’s formula was listed in the “worst choices” category
• Why talking to your pediatrician should always come first
• What parents can expect next from regulators and manufacturers

This episode is all about perspective, reassurance, and informed choices. If you’ve felt overwhelmed by recent headlines, this conversation will give you clarity—not fear.

🔗 Explore more from Consumer Reports: consumerreports.org/babies-kids
📲 Follow Consumer Reports: @consumerreports
📲 Follow Samantha: @therunningwinemom_

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with the incredible Joyce Abbott—the real-life educator who inspired the Emmy-winning show Abbott Elementary.

From her time serving as a military veteran to becoming a celebrated Philadelphia teacher, Joyce shares the powerful journey that led her to become a mentor, leader, and now author of the upcoming book, Teaching the Ms. Abbott Way.

Together, they dive into what it really means to teach, parent, and lead with heart. Joyce opens up about the importance of mental and physical health, why building relationships with students and families is key, and how community support can truly change lives. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or just someone who loves a good success story—this episode will leave you feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to raise the bar in your own life.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Joyce Abbott is the real-life inspiration behind Abbott Elementary.
• Her story spans from U.S. Army Staff Sergeant to award-winning educator.
• Education is a calling that demands passion, purpose, and presence.
• Building relationships with students is the foundation of successful teaching.
• Mental and physical well-being are deeply connected in both parenting and education.
• High standards and love go hand in hand—in and out of the classroom.
• Teachers thrive with encouragement, support, and understanding.
• Every child’s background matters—meet them where they are.
• Teaching the Ms. Abbott Way shares lessons in learning, leadership, and life.
• Raising children—and supporting educators—takes a village.

This episode is sponsored by Fresh Works Holme

Fuel your day the fresh way! Whether you're running errands, managing the chaos of motherhood, or just need a delicious pick-me-up—Fresh Works Holme has you covered with fresh, fast, and flavor-packed options. Go ahead, treat yourself. You deserve it.

📚 Connect with Ms. Joyce Abbott:

👉 Buy her book on Amazon
📸 Follow her on Instagram @therealmsabbott

🍷 Connect with Samantha:

🎧 Follow the podcast & stay updated: @therunningwinemom_

Podcast Episode Summary: Sleep, Wellness & Parenthood with Allison Egidi

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom podcast, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with sleep consultant and wellness coach Allison Egidi to explore the vital role sleep plays in family life. They dive into the challenges of parenting, the impact of fitness on mental health, and Allison’s journey to becoming a sleep expert.

Allison shares expert insights on:
✅ Common sleep issues in children and how to fix them
✅ The importance of bedtime routines for better rest
✅ Handling nightmares, bedtime battles, and nap transitions
✅ How wine and exercise affect sleep quality
✅ Customizing sleep solutions for families—because one size doesn’t fit all

This conversation is packed with practical sleep tips for parents and encouragement to prioritize your own health and well-being while navigating motherhood.

🔗 Connect with Allison:
🌙 Instagram: @sleepandwellnesscoach
🌙 Website: sleepandwellnesscoach.com

🍷 Connect with Samantha:
🏃 Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

✨ Tune in, take notes, and start getting the rest your family deserves!

🎙️ Show Notes: Motherhood & Career Transitions – Navigating the In-Between with Confidence

In this episode of The Running Wine Mom, host Samantha Cieslinski sits down with Lia Higgins, a former lawyer who is currently in transition—navigating motherhood, career shifts, and redefining success on her own terms.

Lia opens up about the challenges of being in-between—not a stay-at-home mom, not a full-time career mom, but somewhere in the middle. She shares how this phase impacts identity, mom guilt, societal expectations, and the pressure to define success in one clear way.

We also dive into her personal experience with miscarriage, why she chooses to be vocal about it, and the importance of community, support systems, and honest conversations in motherhood. If you've ever felt stuck between two worlds, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

✔️ Motherhood doesn’t fit into one label—career paths evolve, and that’s okay.
✔️ Mom guilt exists on both sides, whether you work full-time, stay home, or are figuring things out.
✔️ Support systems matter—outsourcing help isn’t a failure, it’s a tool for balance.
✔️ Talking about miscarriage helps break the silence and create space for healing.
✔️ Social media & motherhood—navigating boundaries while staying authentic.
✔️ You don’t have to choose one role forever—career transitions are valid and necessary.

🎧 Tune in now for an honest, real, and relatable conversation on motherhood, career shifts, and embracing the in-between!

Follow Lia Higgins:

📍 Instagram: @onelitmama_
📍 TikTok: @onelitmama_
📍 Substack: Lia Michelle Higgins

Follow Me!

📍 Instagram: @therunningwinemom_

👉 Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a fellow mom who needs to hear this! 🎙️💛

What if you could blend luxury travel, family life, and your biggest passions into a thriving career? 🌟 On this episode of The Running Wine Mom, I sit down with Vanessa Gordon, CEO & Publisher of East End Taste Magazine, event producer, and travel expert, to discuss how she built an empire while balancing motherhood, wellness, and the beauty of Hamptons living. 🏖️✨

Vanessa shares her top family travel tips, hidden gems in the Hamptons, event-planning secrets, and insights into the world of luxury lifestyle content. Whether you’re looking for the best places to visit with kids, ways to create unforgettable experiences, or how to pursue your passion while raising a family, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration!

In This Episode, We Discuss:
✅ How Vanessa built East End Taste Magazine into a must-read for luxury travel and culinary lovers
✅ The best family-friendly spots in the Hamptons 🏝️ (that aren’t just for celebrities!)
✅ How to balance parenting, business, and self-care without burnout
✅ Behind-the-scenes of the Hamptons Interactive Brunch 🍽️—a must-attend summer event
✅ Family travel hacks to make vacations with kids stress-free ✈️
✅ The power of pursuing your passions while staying present with family ❤️

Follow Vanessa Gordon:
🌍 Website: VanessaPGordon.com
📸 Instagram: @VanessaPGordon

Follow Me, Your Host, Samantha Cieslinski:
📸 Instagram: @TheRunningWineMom_

🎧 Listen Now & Subscribe!
Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow moms, travelers, and entrepreneurs!

✨ This Episode is Sponsored by The Prego Expo!

Calling all expecting and new parents! 👶💛 The Prego Expo is coming to NYC March 8-9th, bringing you the best baby brands, expert speakers, and all the resources you need for pregnancy and parenthood.

🎟️ Use code SAMANTHA20 for 20% off tickets!
📍 Learn more & grab your tickets here: ThePregoExpo.com

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