What if asking for help wasn't shameful—it was celebrated? Discover how this nonprofit is changing the way women support each other.

In this episode, hosts Lacey and Sara sit down with Brittinie Tran, President of Hot Mess Express, to talk about the nonprofit that's helping women across the country through cleaning and organizing—with zero judgment. They also announce an exciting new partnership: Hot Mess Express is joining forces with Joyful Support Movement's Village platform to provide ongoing peer-to-peer support for nominees and volunteers.

What You'll Learn:

• How Hot Mess Express started from one mom's vulnerable Facebook post—and grew into a nationwide movement
• Why asking for help is actually the bravest thing you can do as a woman
• The mutual support model: how volunteers get as much from missions as the women they help
• How to join Hot Mess Express (volunteer, nominate yourself, or start your own affiliate)
• The partnership between Hot Mess Express and Joyful Support Movement's Village platform

Guest: Brittinie Tran, President of Hot Mess Express—a women-led nonprofit with chapters across the United States serving women through cleaning and organizing with zero judgment.

The Partnership:

Joyful Support Movement is providing the Village platform to Hot Mess Express at no charge. This creates a bridge between in-person mission support and ongoing online peer-to-peer community—a safe space for connection without trolls or judgment.

Helpful Links:

• Volunteer, nominate yourself, or start a Hot Mess Express affiliate
• If the Village sounds like a place you'd like to be, learn more and sign up for the Joyful Support Village

Connect with us:

• Instagram/Tiktok/Youtube: @joyfulsupportmovement
• Subscribe to The Practical Hug newsletter

• Visit our website to learn more about our community and resources
• Join the Joyful Support Village for peer-to-peer support
• Subscribe to The Practical Hug newsletter for weekly support in your inbox
• Submit a Joy Moment, No Shame Question, or guest idea
• Follow us on Instagram: @joyfulsupportmovement
• Follow us on TikTok: @joyfulsupportmovement
• Review and rate this podcast to help others find us
• Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it

Welcome to No Shame in Our Game: Where self-help meets community support.

This is the podcast that doesn't care about the right step, just your next step.

Not sure how to start a budget? Need help with home systems? Wondering about etiquette or boundaries? We're Sara and Lacey, your loving aunties who care about how your life feels, not how it looks.

We're co-founders of the Joyful Support Movement, and we created this podcast because we believe you shouldn't have to figure out life alone. We answer your real-life questions about home management, budgeting, life systems, and anything else where you're not sure where to turn.

We're anti-girl-boss, pro-community. No shoulds. No shame. Just possibilities and support.

Submit your questions at

Welcome to No Shame in Our Game: Where self-help meets community support.

This is the podcast that doesn't care about the right step, just your next step.

Not sure how to start a budget? Need help with home systems? Wondering about etiquette or boundaries? We're Sara and Lacey, your loving aunties who care about how your life feels, not how it looks.

We're co-founders of the Joyful Support Movement, and we created this podcast because we believe you shouldn't have to figure out life alone. We answer your real-life questions about home management, budgeting, life systems, and anything else where you're not sure where to turn.

We're anti-girl-boss, pro-community. No shoulds. No shame. Just possibilities and support.

Submit your questions and join us for real conversations about real life.

Connect with us:

Instagram, TikTok & Threads: @joyfulsupportmovement

Join The Village: village.joyfulsupportmovement.com

Newsletter: joyfulsupportmovement.substack.com and join us for real conversations about real life.

Connect with us:

Instagram, TikTok & Threads: @joyfulsupportmovement

Join The Village: village.joyfulsupportmovement.com

Newsletter: joyfulsupportmovement.substack.com

Welcome to No Shame in Our Game!

We are evolving from No Shame in the Home Game, and putting it on steroids (in a good way, not like a roid rage way). We're expanding from home management questions to being your resource for anything in life where you're not sure where to turn.

Not sure how to set up a laundry system? Ask us. Not sure how to start a family budget? Ask us. Not sure about the etiquette of gift-giving with neighbors? Ask us. Think of us as your loving aunties or big sisters who care about how your life feels, not how it looks.

We talk about why the self-help industry feels icky to us, why we don't do shoulds, and how community support beats solo hustle every time. We share our Enneagram helper energy, our love of advice-giving, and why shame has no place in getting help with life.

Plus, we get into Sara's perfect thrift store shirt from Zara and Lacey's wild week of unexpected TikTok validation involving the Sabrina Carpenter, “Tears,” trend.

• Why we're expanding beyond home management to all-life questions
• The difference between toxic self-help and community support
• How to submit your questions anonymously
• Why we focus on possibilities instead of shoulds
• The three pillars of Joyful Support: Story, Joy, and Step
• Why we're anti-girl-boss and pro-making-life-easier

• Submit your questions
• Follow us on Instagram
• Follow us on TikTok
• Follow us on Threads
• Join The Village community
• Subscribe to The Practical Hug newsletter

We're so glad you're here. Whether you've been with us from the beginning or you're just joining now, we appreciate you being part of this journey with us.

In this Q&A mini-episode, we tackle one of the most common friction points in households everywhere: how to effectively ask family members to do things. We explore the foundations of clear communication around home tasks without creating tension or resentment.

• Why being specific about tasks is crucial for successful follow-through
• How to shift language from "I need you to" to "This needs to be done" to reduce personal friction
• The importance of establishing a common household goal before assigning tasks
• Why communication style (including tone and body language) matters as much as the words used
• Practical strategies for teaching children home management skills for their future

• Skylight Calendar - A family calendar that helps coordinate tasks and schedules for everyone in the household
• Dry Erase Board - For those who like to communicate more analog.

We believe these communication foundations can transform how your household functions, reducing tension while getting more done. Remember, these skills take practice - be gentle with yourself as you implement them.

Have a question for a future Q&A episode? Submit it at noshameinthehomegame.com

The Joyful Support Network Podcasts

Join the Joyful Support Village

Home Management for Everyone Course

Sign up for your Weekly Dose of Joy Newsletter

Sponsor Joy and Create a Joy Ripple

Mentioned in this episode:

Support Joy

Support Joy at the Joyful Support Movement and create a joy ripple today.

Cubtale

Make parenting easier with Cubtale.

Cubtale

Welcome to another episode of No Shame in the Home Game ! We're tackling that all-too-familiar question: "Where do I even start?" when facing home challenges. Join Lacey and Sara as they demystify the starting point dilemma using a real-life kitchen table example. With compassion and practical wisdom, they share their detective-inspired approach to noticing patterns without judgment, creating simple systems for recurring items, and celebrating even the tiniest victories.

This conversation is filled with permission to begin imperfectly, embrace your unique process, and find joy in small transformations. Whether you're drowning in paperwork or simply need a fresh perspective on your spaces, this episode offers the gentle nudge and actionable steps you need to move from overwhelm to "I've got this!" So pour yourself something delicious, get cozy, and let's transform our homes one cleared surface at a time!

We discuss:

• How to approach cluttered spaces with a detective mindset rather than judgment
• The power of creating simple systems for recurring items (like children's artwork and bills)
• Practical solutions for paper management, including digital archiving
• The importance of noticing patterns without shame
• Why celebrating small victories fuels continued progress

Products mentioned that might help your journey:

• Multi-purpose cleaner for refreshing cleared surfaces
• Lacey’s Art Preservation Station Canva Templates

Related resources:

• Home Management for Neurodiversity (Part of Joyful Support Village Builder Membership)

Mentioned in this episode:

Cubtale

Make parenting easier with Cubtale.

Cubtale

Cleaning isn’t just about making things look pretty; it’s all about how your space feels! Lacey and Sara dive into the overwhelming world of cleaning products and tackle the big question: what is cleaning, anyway? With so many products claiming to be the magic solution—from natural options to high-tech concoctions—it's easy to feel lost in the cleaning aisle. The hosts break it down into three simple steps: picking up, cleaning, and sanitizing, while emphasizing that cleaning is about removing dirt and grime, not just chasing after that “perfect” shine. So join us as we explore the ins and outs of cleaning, share some laughs, and remind you that it's perfectly okay if your home isn’t always Instagram-ready!

• Cleaning is more than just a chore; it's about creating a space that feels good.
• The aisle of cleaning products can be overwhelming, but starting with multipurpose cleaners is a great approach.
• Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help simplify your cleaning routine.
• Everyone has their own comfort level with cleanliness, so focus on what works for you and your home.
• It's important to find the balance between cleanliness and time management in your daily life.
• Cleaning doesn't have to be shame-based; it can be about maintaining comfort and utility in your space.

In this episode, Lacey and Sara dive deep into the philosophy of cleaning - not just what products to use, but questioning WHY we clean in the first place! We had such a meaningful conversation about the shame and guilt many people carry around their cleaning habits. We talked about how important it is to find YOUR comfort level with cleaning, not what someone else thinks you should do.

We explored how cleaning standards should reflect your current life situation rather than some arbitrary ideal. Lacey shared her personal journey with cleaning shame and how she's healing from it, focusing on how her home FEELS rather than how it LOOKS. Sara made this great point about asking yourself whether an unclean area bothers you genuinely or if it's just societal expectations making you feel bad.

We ended up transforming what was supposed to be a simple Q&A about cleaning products into this wonderful philosophical discussion about removing shame from home maintenance. Lacey even shared a funny moment about cutting her daughter's curly hair in the kitchen and only cleaning up that specific spot while leaving other messes - and being okay with that! Sara mentioned her gratitude for routines, and Lacey couldn't agree more. This episode really embodied our podcast's mission: No Shame in the Home Game!

Links referenced in this episode:

• noshameonthehomegame.com

The Joyful Support Network Podcasts

Join the Joyful Support Village

Home Management for Everyone Course

Sign up for your Weekly Dose of Joy Newsletter

Sponsor Joy and Create a Joy Ripple

Mentioned in this episode:

Cubtale

Make parenting easier with Cubtale.

Cubtale

Support Joy

Support Joy at the Joyful Support Movement and create a joy ripple today.

In this joy-filled mini-episode of No Shame in the Home Game, Sara and Lacey dive into the nitty-gritty of bathtub cleaning with their signature blend of practical wisdom and light-hearted conversation. This episode exemplifies our mission at the Joyful Support Movement: making life's necessary tasks easier so you have more room for joy!

• Start With What You Have: Sara reminds us that cleaning doesn't need fancy products - begin with a multipurpose cleaner and whatever "device" you have on hand (microfiber cloth, sponge, etc.)
• The Cleaning Equation: Lacey realizes cleaning is like an equation - combining what you have access to in order to reach your desired level of clean
• Different Materials Need Different Approaches: Sara explains how various tub materials (plastic surrounds, tile, fixtures) require tailored cleaning methods
• Top-Down Method: Clean from the top down to efficiently remove soap scum and prevent recontamination
• Prevention Is Key: The hosts emphasize that a quick rinse after each use prevents stubborn buildup and saves time later

1. Start simple: Remove the biggest chunks with a tissue
2. For deep cleaning: Remove all bath items (optional but recommended for a thorough clean)
3. Apply cleaner: Use a multipurpose cleaner as your starting point
4. Wipe down: Use a soft cloth or sponge to prevent surface scratching
5. Rinse thoroughly: A detachable sprayer helps, but a damp cloth works too

Stay tuned for future Q&A episodes where Sara will tackle:

• How to clean a tub without bending over
• The truth about abrasives (including "the pink stuff")
• Removing water spots from glass shower doors

Remember, there's absolutely NO SHAME in how you manage your home! Have a cleaning question? Submit it at noshameinthehomegame.com and we might answer it in an upcoming episode.

• The Joyful Support Movement is about creating ripples of joy in your life through practical support. May your day be filled with joy!

Links referenced in this episode:

• noshameinthehomegame.com
• joyfulsupportmovement.com/joymoments

Mentioned in this episode:

Support Joy

Support Joy at the Joyful Support Movement and create a joy ripple today.

The inaugural episode of Joy Moments elucidates the profound significance of small moments shared among individuals, which, as we contend, create ripples of joy that can transcend the mundane. Sara and I, Lacey, embark on this journey to explore the concept of joy, not as an exclusive focus on positivity but as an essential counterbalance to life's inevitable challenges, which we refer to metaphorically as "shit sandwiches." Through our dialogue, we emphasize that joy can coexist with adversity, and that recognizing fleeting moments of happiness can enhance our overall well-being. This podcast is a manifestation of our longstanding desire to cultivate a supportive community that shares and celebrates these joyful instances, inviting listeners to contribute their own experiences. Join us as we delve into the art of noticing joy amidst life's complexities, fostering a collective effort to generate a ripple effect of happiness in our lives and the lives of others.

In the first episode of Joy Moments, the hosts, Lacey and Sara, delve into the concept of joy and its transformative power within everyday life. They articulate the importance of recognizing 'joy moments'—those small instances that can uplift our spirits even amidst the trials and tribulations we may face. Through heartfelt anecdotes and personal experiences, the hosts illustrate how they have practiced gratitude and joy in their own lives and invite listeners to join them in this exploration. The episode is structured around the idea that acknowledging joy does not negate the struggles we encounter, but rather provides a necessary counterbalance that enriches our existence.

The discussion unfolds with an emphasis on the joyful support movement, which serves as the framework for the podcast. Lacey and Sara introduce listeners to the three integral components of this movement: storytelling, taking steps toward joy, and ultimately experiencing joy itself. They stress that this is not a simplistic pursuit of happiness that disregards life's difficulties; rather, it is about finding the joy that can coexist with those challenges. The hosts share personal stories that reveal their individual journeys toward cultivating an awareness of joy, including practices they have established in their households to encourage reflection on daily experiences.

As the episode progresses, the hosts delve into the significance of community and connection in fostering joy. They invite listeners to share their own moments of joy, thereby contributing to a collective narrative that highlights the beauty found in small, everyday moments. This call to action not only encourages engagement but also reinforces the idea that joy can be contagious, creating a ripple effect that spreads positivity within and beyond our immediate circles. Ultimately, this inaugural episode serves as a clarion call for listeners to embrace joy in its myriad forms, thus embarking on a shared journey of discovery and connection.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of small moments shared to create ripples of joy in our lives.
• Lacy and Sara have dreamt of creating the Joy Moments podcast for an extended period, and they are thrilled to finally launch it.
• The Joy Moments philosophy encourages listeners to recognize joy amidst life's challenges without ignoring the negativity present.
• Listeners are invited to share their own joy moments, fostering a community of positivity and support in the face of life's adversities.

The Joyful Support Network Podcasts

Join the Joyful Support Village

Home Management for Everyone Course

Sign up for your Weekly Dose of Joy Newsletter

Sponsor Joy and Create a Joy Ripple

Season 3 Wrap-Up is here, and we’re diving into all the juicy bits from our latest adventures! We’ve spent this season exploring how to balance home life and personal growth while keeping things light and fun. Lacey and Sara reflect on the ups and downs, the laughs, and the serious moments that shaped our journey. We’ll also be chatting about our fabulous participants, like Amy, who taught us that it’s okay to embrace the chaos of life and find your own rhythm. So, grab a cozy drink, kick back, and join us as we celebrate the highlights and share what’s coming next in our joyful support movement!

Reflecting on our adventures in the cozy chaos of home management, we’ve wrapped up another season of No Shame in the Home Game. This season, we took a playful leap into the unknown, exploring new formats and engaging with participants in ways we hadn’t before. From snowy Sundays filled with pajama-clad chats to deep dives into the past, present, and future of our guests' journeys, we’ve had a blast. Join us as we recount the laughter, the lessons, and the occasional hiccups that made this season uniquely ours. We share heartfelt stories about participants like Amy, who tackled the challenges of ADHD and the weight of societal expectations, and Alex, who transitioned from stay-at-home mom to a blossoming tintype photographer. With each episode, we’ve aimed to sprinkle a little joy, reminding ourselves—and you—that it’s all about how your home feels, not how it looks. So, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and let’s dive into the delightful mess that is our lives!

• Reflecting on our journey this season reveals the importance of adaptability and growth.
• We embraced a more playful approach this season, treating our podcast like a cozy sleepover.
• Our shift in format allowed us to connect deeply with past participants, sharing their evolving stories.
• This season emphasized the notion that how our home feels matters more than how it looks.
• We learned that vulnerability and honesty in sharing struggles can foster community support and connection.
• The collaboration with Hot Mess Express illustrates our commitment to helping others find joy in their home management journey.

The Joyful Support Network Podcasts

Join the Joyful Support Village

Home Management for Everyone Course

Sign up for your Weekly Dose of Joy Newsletter

Sponsor Joy and Create a Joy Ripple

Mentioned in this episode:

Support Joy

Support Joy at the Joyful Support Movement and create a joy ripple today.

Cubtale

Make parenting easier with Cubtale.

Cubtale

Cleaning walls and baseboards might not sound like the most riveting topic on the planet, but let us tell you, Lacey and Sara dive deep into this surprisingly fascinating world in our latest Q&A episode!

You know how it goes, one moment you’re giggling about baby kicks, and the next, you’re knee-deep in discussions about the dirt lurking on your walls. Yes, walls can be dirty! Who knew? We explore the cleaning these often-overlooked surfaces, discussing the buildup of dust, grime, and who knows what else that can accumulate over time. If you’ve ever wondered why your walls look a little less than pristine, we’ve got the scoop on that too!

We talk about practical cleaning tips and strategies, breaking it down into a 'good, better, best' framework which makes the seemingly mundane task of wall-cleaning feel a little less daunting. From using the right tools, like those underrated vacuum attachments, to the different cleaning solutions you can whip up at home, we cover it all with our trademark humor and approachability. Plus, we share personal anecdotes about our own cleaning mishaps and successes, which really brings our discussion to life.

So, whether you’re a cleaning aficionado or someone who just wants to keep their home feeling fresh without getting bogged down in the nitty-gritty, this episode is a delightful mix of laughter, practical advice, and the reassurance that you’re not alone in your cleaning struggles. We promise, it’s a fun ride that might just motivate you to tackle those walls!

Takeaways:

• Cleaning walls might sound mundane, but it can reveal layers of dirt you'd never expect!
• If you have kids or pets, keeping walls clean is essential to maintain a healthy environment.
• Using a vacuum attachment is a game changer for dusting high surfaces and baseboards easily.
• Not all cleaning products are created equal; some eco-friendly options might not perform as well as advertised.

Mentioned in this episode:

Cubtale

Make parenting easier with Cubtale.

Cubtale