In this episode of Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys, Kathy sits down with Brittinie Tran, a mother of three, nonprofit leader, and podcast host. Brittinie shares her journey of adopting her three children in California, traveling the country in a renovated camper, and finally settling in North Carolina, all while prioritizing family bonds and community support.

She also talks about her nonprofit, Hot Mess Express, which helps overwhelmed moms by tackling household tasks, and the importance of normalizing asking for help—especially for boys. This conversation dives deep into the power of community, the role of mothers, navigating adoption discussions, and raising children in a digital world.

Key Topics

Brittinie’s Journey to Parenthood & Family Life on the Road

• Moving from the Midwest to California and adopting all three children as newborns.
• Realizing the challenges of raising kids without family support and the decision to move to North Carolina.
• Spending a year traveling in a camper as a family of five, balancing homeschooling with being in the moment.
• The impact of travel on adaptability and family bonding.

Strengthening Family Bonds Through Adventure

• How living in close quarters brought their family closer together.
• The lasting imprint on the children and the hope that they will embark on similar adventures with their own families.

The Power of Community & Supporting Other Moms

• The importance of having a strong support system.
• How community and connection impact parenting.
• The challenges women face in comparing themselves to others and setting high standards.
• Discussion on the need for similar community spaces for men and dads.

The Mission of Hot Mess Express

• Helping overwhelmed moms with everyday tasks like laundry, cleaning, and dishes.
• Instilling values of volunteerism and community in her children.
• Brittinie’s daughter starting a kid’s version of Hot Mess Express.
• Teaching children to offer help, pay attention, and take action.

Encouraging Boys to Ask for Help & Express Emotion

• The stigma boys face when showing vulnerability.
• How Brittinie encourages her sons to see asking for help as an act of courage.
• The difference in emotional expression between her daughter and sons.
• The importance of parents modeling the behaviors they want to teach.

Navigating Conversations About Adoption & Belonging

• Celebrating their unique family journey in a positive light.
• Encouraging open and honest discussions about adoption.
• Belief in fate and destiny bringing their family together.

Setting Boundaries with Technology

• Brittinie’s strict stance on limiting internet and social media use for her children.
• The impact of screens replacing real-life community and connection.

Final Thoughts 

• The importance of being vulnerable with your kids.
• Showing children that parents are real humans navigating challenges too.
• Emphasizing adventure, presence, and creating meaningful connections.

Guest Bio:

Brittinie Tran understands the reality of womanhood and motherhood—no pretending, no judgment. Her passion for authentic connection led her to create and host Girl, Same the podcast and serve as President of Hot Mess Express nonprofit.

Recognizing Hot Mess Express's potential early on, Brittinie transformed it into a thriving nonprofit and has led it as President for three years. Her dedication to building supportive communities has empowered countless women, making a deeply fulfilling impact.

For 18 years, Brittinie moved around the country, seeking her "tribe"—a group of girlfriends to laugh with and share openly. Finally finding that connection inspired Girl, Same, a girls-night-style podcast, filled with real conversation, laughter, advice, and support. Whether expanding your circle or creating new friendships, Brittinie and her guests offer a space where every woman feels seen and heard.

Links:

Connect with Brittinie Tran

• Hot Mess Express Nonprofit: @hotmessexpress.nonprofit
• Girl, Same Podcast: @girlsamethepodcast 
• Instagram:@brittiniechristine
• Website:@brittinietran.com 

More from Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

• Website: @sonhoodcoaching.com
• Raising Boys Who Become Remarkable Men
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryne-imabayashi/
• https://www.instagram.com/sonhoodcoaching/
• https://www.facebook.com/sonhoodcoaching
• https://www.youtube.com/@sonhoodcoaching

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Share this episode with a fellow parent who could benefit from Brittinie’s insights on family, community, and raising resilient kids!

#UnlockingTheParentingCode #HotMessExpress #RaisingBoys #ParentingCommunity#SonhoodCoaching

Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

Welcome to Unlocking the Parenting Code: All About Boys

This season, we’re diving deep into the world of boys—exploring what it takes to raise them to become remarkable young men. Hosted by Kathy Imabayashi, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for boys’ emotional well-being, this podcast offers real-life stories, expert insights, and practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising boys.

What to Expect

In Season 2, we’re focusing on boys' emotional worlds—understanding their behavior, building stronger connections, and helping them grow into confident, resilient individuals. Through heartfelt conversations and shared experiences, we’ll uncover the struggles, joys, and breakthroughs of parenting boys.

Each episode offers:

*Stories from parents, teachers, and caregivers that shed light on the complexities of raising boys.

*Strategies to support boys in managing emotions, forming healthy relationships, and building self-esteem.

*Insights that will empower you in understanding how to nurture the boy in your life and set him up for success.

Join Us!

Whether you're raising a toddler, a teen, or anywhere in between, this season is all about celebrating and supporting boys—and the parents who guide them. Tune in for heart-centered conversations, expert advice, and practical tools to unlock the parenting code for boys.Share your parenting story with us here. Visit SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more and subscribe!

About Sonhood Coaching

Sonhood Coaching focuses on the emotional well-being of boys, helping parents nurture their sons to become remarkable men. Through courses, coaching, and resources, we empower families to better understand and support the inner emotional world of boys. Explore SonhoodCoaching.com to learn more about our programs and services.

Looking to transform your relationship with your son? Visit SonhoodCoaching.com for valuable resources and expert support.