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"Spoiler: Your to-do list isn’t the problem—it’s your brain (and maybe your phone). This week, TULA’s Debra Doliner returns to help us hack time management, ditch guilt, and finally make that 5-minute phone call we’ve all been avoiding for months."

• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who’ve ever cried over an empty laundry basket (why is it always full again by noon?!).
• Anyone whose "ideal day" involves not answering emails on a ‘break’ in the bathroom.
• Women ready to embrace Dolly Parton’s wisdom: "Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life."

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What You Get In This Episode

1. Your "Ideal Day" Is a Compass
   • Write down what your actual perfect day looks like (yes, tacos count). Then add what fills your cup (game nights! walks!) and subtract what drains you (pointless meetings, we’re looking at you).
2. The 3-Task Rule
   • Only put 3 must-do items on your daily to-do list. "Finished them? Congrats! Everything else is bonus points."
3. Delegate Like a CEO
   • That vet appointment you’ve avoided for months? The donation pile judging you? Outsource it (babysitters, TULA, or a neighbor going to Goodwill anyway).
4. "No Agenda? No Atten-da!"
   • Stop attending meetings that could’ve been an email. Protect your time like it’s the last cookie in the jar.
5. Phone Jail Is Real
   • Debra uses a literal lockbox (ySky Cell Phone lockbox) to break her phone addiction. Way to stick to those boundaries.

—

Bios

"Caitlin & Jenny: Educators, moms, and glitter survivors. Follow our chaos @CKandGKPodcast."

—

Mentioned in This Episode

• TULA Life Balanced (Use code GROWNUP20 for 20% off personal assistant/chef services!)
• The Finisher’s Journal (For ADHD brains who need focus)
• The Mom Psychologist (Instagram gold for parent-child connection)
• The Daily Stoic (Ryan Holiday’s wisdom for chaotic minds)

"Subscribe so you never miss an episode (unlike that phone call you only answered in your head). Tell us your best delegation win @CKandGKPodcast!"

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Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

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Between snack emergencies and the ‘second shift’ of mom life, your energy is constantly on E. This week, TULA Life Balanced’s Debra Doliner shares science-backed hacks to recharge—because literally ‘touching grass’ and 8-minute friend calls might just save your sanity.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who collapse at 5 PM but still have 47 tasks to do.
• Anyone who’s ever thought, “I love my kids, but why does ‘Please play Frisbee with me’ sound like “Please run a marathon with me”? (Spoiler: Your energy cycles are not broken—just misunderstood.)
• Women who’ve chugged coffee at 9AM, 12PM, and 3 PM… yet still feel like a zombie. (Hydration hacks incoming!)

—

What You Get In This Episode

1. Energy ≠ Time
   • Physical energy ≠ mental energy. Example: "I can’t throw a Frisbee right now, but I can play a game."
   • Hack: Front-load mentally taxing tasks when your brain is fresh (or after coffee kicks in).
2. Hydration is a Superpower
   • Just 2% dehydration slows brain function. Your emotional support water bottle isn’t optional—it’s survival gear.
3. The 8-Minute Energy Boost
   • Call a hype friend for 8 mins (Simon Sinek-approved!). Just get it off your chest!
4. “Touch Grass” Literally
   • Bare feet on grass = instant mood boost. Yes, even if your neighbor side-eyes you.
5. Breathing for Energy
   • Inhale 80%, pause, inhale 20%, exhale = calm. Reverse it = energy. Check out Yoga With Tim.

—

Bios

Caitlin & Jenny: Educators, moms, and glitter survivors. Follow our chaos on your favorite podcast and social media apps.

Debra Doliner is Caitlin’s friend and Austin Head of Marketing + Growth for TULA Life Balanced, Inc.

—

Mentioned In This Episode

• TULA Life Balanced App (Use code GROWNUP20 for 20% off!)
• Yuka App ("Scan your pantry and weep over your Oreos.")
• Yoga With Tim on YouTube
• Clinique Black Honey Almost Lipstick

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Remember when reading meant getting lost in a book instead of lost in a pile of laundry? This episode is for every mom who misses the joy of reading but can’t figure out how to squeeze it between snack requests and sock emergencies. Spoiler: Audiobooks count, and yes, fanfic totally counts too.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who used to devour books but now only have time to devour cold coffee and leftover chicken nuggets.
• Anyone who’s ever cried over a library fine (or a toddler’s board book "edits").
• Parents who need an escape but can’t decide between a thriller or a nap.

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What You Get In This Episode

1. Audiobooks Are Legit (No, Really) – Ditch the guilt! Listening to books while folding laundry totally counts as "me time."
2. E-Readers to the Rescue – Adjust fonts, backgrounds, and even read in the dark (because bedtime is the only quiet time).
3. Short & Sweet Wins – Novellas and short stories for when your attention span matches your toddler’s.
4. Fanfic for the Win – Revisit familiar characters without committing to a 500-page novel.
5. Book Clubs & Body Doubling – Because sometimes you need peer pressure to finish a chapter.

—

Bios

Caitlin & Jenny are best friends, educators, and moms who still Google "how to remove glitter from carpets." They’re here to help you adult—without losing your sanity or your sense of humor.

Ariella Monti is the author of Roots In Ink, a yoga instructor, and the biggest fan of Steve Rogers we know.

—

Your Next Steps

• Tag us @CKandGKPodcast with your #GrownupReadingHacks (or your kid’s reaction to the birds-and-bees chicken edition).
• Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Send us a Text!

Hey Mama, feeling guilty about taking time for yourself? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into the real reason self-care feels so hard—guilt—and sharing five practical ways to ditch it for good. Whether you’re a serial people-pleaser or just can’t seem to prioritize yourself, we’ve got the tools to help you reclaim your time, redefine success, and finally say “no” without feeling bad about it.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

👉 Ready to ditch the guilt and finally prioritize yourself? Start by redefining your self-care and saying “no” to what doesn’t serve you. And don’t forget to subscribe to our email list for more tips, laughs, and self-care moments!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who feel guilty about taking time for themselves.
• People-pleasers who struggle to say “no.”
• Anyone who needs a reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

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What You Get In This Episode

1. Redefine self-care: Learn why your current definition might be holding you back (and how to fix it).
2. Ditch achievement-based success: Stop tying your self-worth to outcomes and start celebrating the process.
3. Master the art of saying “no”: Discover why “no” is a complete sentence—and how to use it guilt-free.
4. Take back your time: Uncover hidden pockets of time you didn’t know you had.
5. Build a support system: Learn why accountability is key to making self-care stick.

—

Bios

Caitlin Kindred (CK):

A former teacher, mom, and self-proclaimed “recovering overthinker,” Caitlin is on a mission to help moms navigate the chaos of adulthood with humor and practical advice. She’s passionate about making self-care and mindfulness accessible for everyone—especially busy moms.

Ariella Monti (Guest Co-Host):

A certified yoga instructor, published author, and mom, Ariella brings a wealth of knowledge about mindfulness and self-care. With a background in yoga and lots of time in therapy, she’s all about helping people find calm in the chaos—one deep breath (or mindful moment) at a time.

—

Sources

• How To Stop Feeling Guilty About Taking Care Of Yourself | Heather Moulder Course Correction Coaching
• Episode 144: 4 Clever Ways to Reset Your Forgotten Self-Care Routine
• Episode 146: Why Hobbies Are the Secret to Surviving Motherhood

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or just plain over it? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of hobbies—yes, hobbies!—and why they’re not just a luxury but a necessity for your mental health. Whether you’re a serial hobby-starter (thanks, ADHD) or haven’t picked up a hobby since middle school, we’ve got practical tips to help you find—and stick with—something you love. Plus, we’ll share why hobbies are the ultimate form of self-care (and why you shouldn’t turn them into a side hustle).

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who feel like they’ve lost themselves in the chaos of motherhood.
• ADHDers who struggle to stick with hobbies (or feel guilty for starting new ones).
• Anyone who needs a reminder that it’s okay to do something just for fun.

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What You Get In This Episode

1. The science behind hobbies: Learn why hobbies are linked to better mental health, happiness, and life satisfaction (backed by a 2023 study!).
2. How to find your hobby: Tips for exploring new interests without breaking the bank (hello, library classes and Buy Nothing groups!).
3. Making time for hobbies: Why scheduling “hobby time” is just as important as scheduling soccer practice or work meetings.
4. The perfectionism trap: How to let go of the pressure to be “good” at your hobby and just enjoy the process.
5. Why hobbies shouldn’t be side hustles: A gentle reminder that your hobby is for you, not for profit.

—

Bios

Caitlin Kindred (CK):

A former teacher, mom, and self-proclaimed “recovering overthinker,” Caitlin is on a mission to help moms navigate the chaos of adulthood with humor and practical advice. She’s passionate about making self-care and mindfulness accessible for everyone—especially busy moms.

Ariella Monti (Guest Co-Host):

A certified yoga instructor, published author, and mom, Ariella brings a wealth of knowledge about mindfulness and self-care. With a background in yoga and lots of time in therapy, she’s all about helping people find calm in the chaos—one deep breath (or mindful moment) at a time.

—

👉 Ready to find your next hobby? Start by checking out your local library, joining a Buy Nothing group, or just being “hobby curious.” And don’t forget to subscribe to our email list for more tips, laughs, and self-care moments!

—

Sources

• Having a hobby tied to happiness and well-being | Harvard Health

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or just plain over it? You’re not alone. In this episode, we’re breaking down mindfulness in a way that’s practical, accessible, and even a little funny. Whether you’ve got ADHD, a packed schedule, or just a serious case of “mom brain,” we’ve got a simple mindfulness exercise that you can do anywhere—yes, even while doing dishes.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

• Moms who feel like they’re constantly juggling a million things and need a quick reset.
• Anyone who’s tried mindfulness before but found it too abstract or intimidating.
• Busy parents looking for simple, actionable ways to reduce stress and stay present.

—

What You Get In This Episode

1. A clear definition of mindfulness—and why it’s not just about sitting cross-legged in a dark room.
2. A simple, tactile mindfulness exercise you can do with any object (even a cup of coffee or a leaf!).
3. Tips for incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine, whether you’ve got 5 seconds or 5 minutes.
4. Why mindfulness is like a “fire extinguisher” for small stressors—not a full-blown crisis solution.
5. A guided meditation from certified yoga instructor (and published author!) Ariella Monti to help you reset in just 5 minutes.

—

👉 Ready to give mindfulness a try? Grab your favorite object (a rock, a leaf, or even your coffee) and join us for a quick, guided meditation at the end of the episode. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow us on social media for more tips on how to be a grown-up without losing your mind!

—

Bios

Caitlin Kindred (CK):

A former teacher, mom, and self-proclaimed “recovering overthinker,” Caitlin is on a mission to help moms navigate the chaos of adulthood with humor and practical advice. She’s passionate about making self-care and mindfulness accessible for everyone—especially busy moms.

Ariella Monti (Guest Co-Host):

A certified yoga instructor, published author, and mom, Ariella brings a wealth of knowledge about mindfulness and self-care. With a background in yoga, she’s all about helping people find calm in the chaos—one deep breath (or mindful moment) at a time. Learn more about her and her books here.

—

Sources

• What Is Mindfulness? | Yoga International
• Are Mindfulness and Meditation the Same? | Yoga International
• Additional Reading: The Miracle of Mindfulness, An Introduction to the Practice of Meditation by Thich Nhat Hanh

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Thanks, y'all!

Send us a Text!

Ready to ditch the mom guilt and prioritize your well-being? This week, Ariella Monti (stepping in for Jenny) and I are sharing 4 clever ways to reset your self-care routine. It's time to reclaim your "me time" and feel like yourself again.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

Anyone who feels overwhelmed, guilty about taking "me time," or wants practical tips to prioritize their well-being should listen. Busy moms, especially, will find this episode a game-changer for reclaiming their sanity and rediscovering themselves.

—

What You Get In This Episode

• Ditch the Mom Guilt: Learn practical strategies to prioritize your well-being without feeling selfish.
• Reclaim Your "Me Time": Discover actionable tips to carve out time for yourself, even with a busy schedule.
• Practical, Not Preachy Advice: Get real, relatable strategies that fit into your everyday life, not just idealistic concepts.
• Feel Like Yourself Again: Learn how to reconnect with your passions and rediscover your identity beyond motherhood.

—

Bios

CK and Ariella are two moms who know the struggle of balancing motherhood and self-care. They're here to share their wisdom-ous-ness on how to ditch the guilt and prioritize your well-being.

—

Sources

• ReachOut Australia: Anonymous and confidential, ReachOut is a safe place where young people can openly express themselves, get a deeper understanding and perspective on what’s happening in their lives, connect with people who will provide judgment-free support, and build the resilience to manage their challenges now and in the future.
  • Quiz: What kind of self-care is right for you?
  • Blog post: How to make self-care a family priority
  • FactSheet: Self-care for parents and teens
  • Video: What parents think about self-care
• How To Stop Feeling Guilty About Taking Care Of Yourself | Heather Moulder
• How To Say No Without Feeling Guilt (Step-By-Step Instructions) | Heather Moulder
• Self-Care for Kids by Age: Everything You Need to Know | ChildSavers

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Forget shopping sprees! This week, we're diving into the glorious world of Buy Nothing Groups with the delightful Ariella Monti (pinch-hitting for our injured Jenny). Think free kayaks, poker tables, random flowers, and a whole lot of community spirit. It's like a virtual garage sale, but everything's free. Seriously.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

Anyone who loves free stuff, wants to declutter their life, or is looking for a way to connect with their community. Plus, anyone who enjoys a good story about a slightly used poker table.

—

What You Get In This Episode

• The lowdown on what Buy Nothing Groups are and how they work (it's not just a free-for-all!)
• Hilarious and heartwarming stories of gifting and receiving (Free. Freaking. Kayak.)
• Practical tips for finding and joining your local Buy Nothing Group
• How to communicate effectively and build positive relationships within the group
• Ideas for exploring new hobbies and decluttering your life, all for free!

—

Bios

CK and her friend, published author Ariella Monti, are diving into the world of Buy Nothing Groups. They’re sharing how you can declutter, save money, and build community, all at the same time.

—

Sources

• The BuyNothing Project
• Visit Ariella’s website here
• Learn about her books and place your preorder here

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Thanks, y'all!

Send us a Text!

Discover how a library card can be your secret weapon for saving money during our Finance February series! Ariella Monti, a talented author and cherished friend of the show, joins us to share her savvy approach to maximizing the benefits of local libraries. We uncover the surprisingly expansive world of resources that a simple library card can unlock. From borrowing books to gaining free or discounted access to museums and zoos, Ariella and I explore how libraries are much more than a quiet place to read—they're a gateway to a treasure trove of cost-saving opportunities and experiences.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

Moms, families, bargain hunters, bookworms, and anyone who wants to make the most of their local library.

—

What You Get In This Episode

Libraries are not just about books; they offer a huge amount of free resources that can enrich your life and save you money! This episode discusses how to maximize a library membership.

Listen to learn about:

• The benefits of getting a library card—and then getting more library cards
• Discounts and free passes available for local attractions
• Unique items available for borrowing beyond traditional books
• Library classes and workshops to explore new skills at low cost
• Streaming services accessed through your library
• How to support your local library to ensure continued resources

—

Bios

Caitlin (CK) and her cherished friend, author Ariella Monti, are spilling the secrets on how your library card can unlock a world of savings and experiences. Because who doesn't love free stuff?

—

Sources

• All about Ariella Monti 
  • Visit Ariella’s website here
  • Learn about her books and place your preorder here

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Thanks, y'all!

Send us a Text!

What if the financial world wasn't stacked against women?

Financial literacy and savings are a big deal, especially for women. Frankly, the deck is often stacked against us. We're talking about how societal stuff, economic realities, and even our own choices can make it harder for women to save for the future. On this week's podcast, we're diving headfirst into this mess, figuring out why it's so tough for women to save and what we can actually do about it.

• Get even more content from this episode’s blog post, here.
• Subscribe to our newsletter!

—

Who Should Listen

Millennial moms, working women, and anyone who's ever felt the sting of the gender pay gap—this episode is for you. We're tackling the financial challenges women face head-on.

—

What You Get In This Episode

This week, we're diving into the financial challenges women face and offering practical strategies to overcome them, including:

• The cold, hard truth about women's savings: We're talking stats, the gender pay gap (ugh), how education (and student loans, double ugh), and the lack of paid parental leave all play a role.
• Why community matters: We'll discuss the power of talking about money with other women (no judgment here!).
• Real solutions to help women build financial security like how to get paid what you deserve and how to make your money work for you: Quick tips on negotiating salary and benefits and high-yield savings accounts and other smart money moves (because you're worth it!).

—

Bios

CK and GK, hosts of "How to Be a Grownup," are tackling the financial challenges women face and offering practical advice you can actually use.

—

Sources

• 26% of working women are leaving free money on the table that could set back their retirement by Alex Gailey
• What holds women back from saving — and what they can do about it by Jasmin Suknanan
• Why Don’t Women Save As Much as Men by Liliana Hall

The best support is a rating and a share.

Love,
CK & GK

Support the show

View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on
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Thanks, y'all!