In this episode, Meagan and Katie dive into a topic all parents wrestle with but rarely say out loud: Are adults allowed to have privacy from their kids? (Spoiler: yes.) We talk through what healthy privacy actually looks like inside a family — not secret-keeping, not shutting kids out, but creating space for your own emotional world, your own plans, and your own grown-up life.

We explore how to balance being open and connected with your kids while still holding boundaries that protect your energy, your relationships, and your sanity. We also unpack the pressure modern parents feel to narrate everything, explain everything, and be constantly available.

Ultimately, we share why giving yourself permission to keep some things private is a gift to your kids, too: it models boundaries, emotional regulation, and what healthy adulthood can look like.

Takeaways (On-Brand Version)

• Adults are allowed to have an inner world — our kids don’t get access to every thought or feeling.

• Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re what make healthy, connected relationships possible.

• Kids learn to respect privacy by watching us practice it.

• When we model healthy privacy, we’re teaching kids how to care for their own emotional space.

• Parents get to hold their own emotions first, and then choose what to share.

• Oversharing with kids can feel like connection, but it often puts weight on them they’re not ready for.

• Keeping certain adult things private actually protects kids and lets them stay kids.

• Families thrive when there are clear, consistent privacy norms everyone understands.

• Technology makes privacy trickier — but it also makes these conversations even more important.

• Being intentional about privacy is a powerful way to support kids’ emotional well-being.

  
  

  For counseling and parenting help: https://meaganjacksoncounseling.com/

In this episode, Meagan and Katie sit down with special guest Mike MacCrory, a sports performance coach who helps kids build confidence and mental strength through athletics. Together, they dive into the world of youth sports—the wins, the losses, and all the learning that happens in between.

They unpack how sports can be a powerful teacher for kids, shaping skills like resilience, teamwork, and emotional regulation, and how parents can support that growth without getting caught up in the pressure of performance. From navigating disappointment to celebrating effort, this conversation is full of practical insight (and a few laughs) about what it really means to help our kids grow through the game.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Sports are a safe place for kids to practice real-life skills—resilience, teamwork, and managing hard moments.

• Failure and frustration in sports aren’t setbacks—they’re training grounds for life.

• Parents play a huge role in shaping how kids see themselves after a tough game or a missed shot.

• Movement matters—whether it’s competitive sports or backyard play, staying active supports mental and emotional health.

  The lessons our kids learn on the field will serve them far beyond the scoreboard.

In this episode, Meagan and Katie get real about mom guilt—that sneaky little voice that tells us we’re never doing enough. They unpack where it comes from, how social expectations make it worse, and why balance sometimes feels impossible. With humor and honesty, they talk about juggling work, family, and the myth of “having it all,” and share ways to give ourselves some grace along the way. Spoiler: guilt might never totally go away, but it doesn’t have to run the show.

Takeaways

Mom guilt is a common struggle for many mothers.

Expectations for mothers today are often unrealistic.

Finding balance in parenting is crucial for emotional health.

Community support can alleviate feelings of guilt.

Self-care is essential for effective parenting.

Intentionality in daily routines helps manage guilt.

Quality of time spent with children matters more than quantity.

It's important to communicate openly with children about work-life balance.

Mothers should seek help and support from friends and family.

Understanding that guilt is a part of motherhood can help in coping.

In this episode, Meagan and Katie take a walk down memory lane (and maybe down the street to play outside) as they talk about how childhood play has changed over the years. From bikes and backyard adventures to iPads and indoor time, they explore how parenting, safety, and community have all evolved. The conversation touches on how much freedom we give our kids, what’s changed in the world around us, and why community still matters so deeply in raising confident, capable kids.

Takeaways

Outdoor play is essential for children's development.

Trusting children fosters their independence.

Community connections enhance children's safety.

Parents often feel anxious about their children's freedom.

Technology can help parents keep track of their kids.

Children learn important social skills through exploration.

The neighborhood dynamics have changed over the years.

Parents should encourage kids to navigate their environment.

Setting boundaries helps children feel secure.

It's important to balance safety with freedom in parenting.

In this episode, Meagan and Katie talk about what it really means to give your kids a “voice and a vote” — and how to do it without turning your household into a democracy gone wild. They dig into how kids’ brains develop, what kinds of choices make sense at different ages, and why letting kids have a say can actually build confidence and cooperation. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between giving your kids a voice and still being the grown-up in charge (even when they don’t love your final verdict).

Takeaways

Voice and vote means including kids in decisions in an age appropriate way.

Children's brains are not fully developed until age 26.

It's important to help kids communicate their hopes without overwhelming them with responsibility.

Practical examples help illustrate voice vs. vote for kids.

Choices should be age-appropriate and guided by parents.

Negotiation becomes more important as kids grow older.

Parents can set boundaries while allowing kids to express preferences.

Voice and vote can help children develop decision-making skills.

Every child is unique, requiring tailored approaches.

Transitioning to independence involves gradual shifts in responsibility.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Voice and Vote

02:37 The Role of Development in Decision Making

05:16 Practical Applications for Younger Children

07:57 Navigating Choices for Older Kids

10:26 Negotiating Boundaries and Responsibilities

13:01 Transitioning to Independence

15:55 Balancing Voice and Authority

18:23 Conclusion and Reflections

In this episode, Meagan and Katie dive into the myth of the “perfect childhood” — you know, the one with the Pinterest parties, magical memories, and zero meltdowns. They get real about the pressure parents feel to make every moment special, and how that can sometimes backfire (for us and the kids). From over-the-top celebrations to the everyday disappointments that build resilience, this conversation is all about finding balance, connection, and humor in the messy middle of raising good humans.

In this episode, Katie and Meagan dive into the heart of what makes parenting just a little more doable—community. They swap stories about the people who’ve shown up for them, talk about how modern parenting can feel a bit too isolated, and share ideas for how to build your own village (even when it doesn’t come built-in anymore).

• 00:00:01 Introduction to Community Support
• 00:01:18 Personal Stories of Community Impact
• 00:03:13 Challenges of Modern Parenting
• 00:05:59 Building Intentional Connections
• 00:09:18 The Role of Vulnerability
• 00:13:06 Finding and Creating Community

Takeaways:

• Community support is essential in parenting.
• Modern society has shifted towards nuclear families.
• Building intentional connections is crucial.
• Vulnerability can strengthen community ties.
• Shared experiences foster deeper relationships.
• Proximity increases the likelihood of friendships.
• Involvement in community activities is beneficial.
• Asking for help can build stronger bonds.
• Children benefit from a supportive community.
• Intentional presence makes a significant difference.

For Counseling help:

https://meaganjacksoncounseling.com/

In this podcast episode, Meagan and Katie discuss the significance of routines and rituals in parenting.

They explore how routines provide structure and safety for children, while also emphasizing the importance of flexibility in adapting these routines.

The conversation delves into the difference between routines and rituals, highlighting how rituals can foster connection and meaningful moments between parents and children.

Practical tips for implementing routines and creating rituals are shared, along with insights on navigating challenges that arise in family dynamics.

Resources mentioned: I Love You Rituals, Dr. Becky Bailey

In this episode of 'But the Years Are Short', Megan and Katie explore the complexities of parenting, particularly focusing on how to navigate big emotions in older children and in ourselves.

They discuss the importance of recognizing our own emotional states, the necessity of repairing relationships after conflicts, and the significance of teaching children how to express their feelings appropriately.

The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and creating a safe environment for emotional expression within families.

Resources: Mel Robbins Podcast: The Real Reason Boys and Men are Quietly Giving Up and What They Need to Hear

Not sure how to help your little through those monstrously huge feelings? Katie and Meagan share great stories and better tips for helping tiny humans through these big moments.