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The Odd Moms are back and fired up. Chelsea, Britt, Kara, Tianna, and Courtney are unpacking the longest government shutdown in U.S. history and what it really means for families. 

From SNAP and WIC cuts to military families without paychecks and schools struggling to feed kids, this episode breaks down the chaos and the human cost behind the headlines.

It’s part outrage, part heartbreak, and part pure solidarity as the crew dives into who’s being hit hardest, how parents are holding it together, and why the 2025 election results actually give us a little bit of hope. Plus, we talk about small ways to show up for your community, make “Thriftmas” happen, and keep your sanity when the system’s a mess.

Because yes, the world feels dystopian, but we’ve still got each other.

🗝️ Key Takeaways

• The 2025 government shutdown is the longest in U.S. history, leaving families without food, paychecks, and basic resources.
• Programs like SNAP, WIC, Head Start, and Section 8 have been halted or delayed, directly harming millions of women and children.
• The money exists—it’s being deliberately withheld as a political weapon.
• Vulnerable communities, especially women of color, single parents, and families of disabled children, are feeling the heaviest impact.
• Parents are finding creative ways to stay afloat: community fridges, “little free pantries,” thrifting, growing food, and teaching kids empathy through action.
• The “Blue Wave” election results gave hope that change is possible when people show up and speak out.
• Connection, compassion, and community are the antidotes to chaos.

🔊 Soundbites

• “Hungry people can’t fight—and that’s exactly the point.”
• “It’s not a political stunt. It’s a household crisis.”
• “We’re one paycheck away from collapse, and somehow people still think this isn’t their problem.”
• “The money is there. It’s being withheld. That’s the dystopian nightmare part.”
• “They can take away our assistance, but they can’t take away our humanity.”
• “Thriftmas 2025—because joy doesn’t have to come from Amazon.”
• “There’s more of us than there are of them. The election proved it.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Save the Children – How the Shutdown Hurts Kids 
• Feeding America – Find Your Local Food Bank 
• Food Finder – Locate Free Food Resources Near You 
• Watercress by Andrea Wang 
• A Chair for My Mother by Vera B. Williams 
• Little Free Library Map 
• Freedge Community Fridge Locator 

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We made it to double digits! In this milestone 10th episode of Odd Moms On Call, Chelsea, Britt, Lindsey, and Jess ditch the outline and let it all out. From life updates and personal glimmers to venting about healthcare, politics, Charlie Kirk, and the state of the world, nothing is off the table. We share what this podcast community has meant to us, why finding your people matters more than ever, and—of course—our unfiltered hot takes.

If you’ve ever needed a reminder that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed, angry, hopeful, or hilariously odd, this one’s for you.

✨ Key Takeaways

• Reaching 10 episodes is a huge milestone and a reminder to celebrate progress, even in hard times.
  
  
• Life updates highlight the challenges of healthcare, parenting, activism, and finding joy in small moments.
  
  
• The Charlie Kirk fallout, religious influence in schools, and rising extremism weigh heavily on moms nationwide.
  
  
• Connection, mutual aid, and community are essential acts of resistance in difficult times.
  
  
• Hot takes cover everything from gun violence and gender constructs to keeping religion out of schools.
  
  
• Odd Moms has created a supportive, empowering circle that makes each member feel seen, safe, and strong.

💬 Soundbites

• “The only thing more predictable than mass shootings in the U.S. is our government’s refusal to do anything about it.” – Chelsea
  
  
• “Gender is a completely made up social construct meant to fuel suppression—and it harms everyone.” – Britt
  
  
• “I don’t want religion anywhere near my child’s school. Period.” – Lindsey
  
  
• “If you’re speaking on scientific research and say correlation proves anything, I’m going to assume you don’t know anything about research.” – Jess
  
  
• “Find your pockets of people, because the world is on fire—and keeping each other stable and supported is resistance.” – Britt
  
  
• “Speaking your truth should not put you in danger. For anyone.” – Chelsea
  
  
• “Odd Moms has been a grounding, empowering reminder that we don’t have to do this alone.” – Collective

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When the headlines are heavy, so are our hearts—and our conversations with our kids. In this episode of Odd Moms On Call, registered nurse and IBCLC Britt is joined by therapist Kara Kushnir, LCSW, and psychologist Jess Rabon, PhD, to unpack the realities of raising children in a climate marked by mass shootings, anti-LGBTQ legislation, rainbow crosswalk bans, and the endless scapegoating of marginalized communities.

Together, they dive into the twisted narratives that follow tragedies, the real statistics on violence, and how misinformation about trans identity and mental health only fuels stigma. They also explore how parents can keep kids safe, foster open dialogue, and raise empathetic humans despite fear-driven politics.

And of course, they end with a hot take: If politicians really cared about kids, they’d pass gun reform—not ban rainbow crosswalks. 

✨ Key Takeaways

• Scapegoating hurts kids: Politicians and media often pin violence on LGBTQ+ identities or mental health rather than addressing real systemic issues like gun access.
  
  
• Statistics tell the truth: Over 98% of mass shooters are men, with trans individuals representing less than 0.1% of cases. Trans people are far more likely to be victims, not perpetrators, of violence.
  
  
• Mental health ≠ violence: Serious mental illness accounts for only 3–5% of violent acts. SSRIs do not cause mass shootings.
  
  
• Conversations matter: Parents can start with foundational, age-appropriate truths—like teaching empathy, inclusivity, and the importance of safe spaces.
  
  
• Connection is power: Fostering open communication, kindness, and community keeps kids grounded even in turbulent times. 

🎧 Soundbites

1. “If politicians really cared about protecting kids, they’d be passing gun reform—not banning rainbow crosswalks.”
   
   
2. “Trans people aren’t the threat—they’re the scapegoat.”
   
   
3. “Mental illness isn’t the cause of mass shootings. In fact, people with mental illness are far more likely to be victims than perpetrators.”
   
   
4. “We don’t get to choose the world our kids are born into, but we do get to choose how we show up in it.”
   
   
5. “At the end of the day, it’s about connection, empathy, and raising humans who know they are safe and loved.”

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The Odd Moms panel is back and diving headfirst into the chaos of summer 2025. Chelsea, Britt, Lindsey, and Jess tackle the massive No Kings Movement protests, the bombings in Iran, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Trump’s declaration of martial law in D.C., and the looming threat to marriage equality. Along the way, they share how they’re navigating these issues as parents — from deciding what to tell their kids, to finding moments of joy in a heavy world.

This episode blends raw reactions, personal stories, and practical resources for talking to kids about difficult current events. Whether you joined the protests, watched from afar, or are simply trying to keep your family grounded, this conversation offers solidarity, perspective, and a few laughs in the face of the unprecedented.

Key Takeaways

• No Kings Movement impact: Millions protested nationwide, with small-town turnouts rivaling big cities. The movement addressed democracy, voting rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and immigrant protections.
• Parenting in protest culture: Panelists share why they did or didn’t bring their kids to demonstrations, and how they explain activism in age-appropriate ways.
• Bombings in Iran: Reflections on the fear, déjà vu from 9/11-era deployments, and the challenge of shielding children from overwhelming news.
• Humanitarian crisis in Gaza: Even without deep political knowledge, the panel agrees — children starving is unacceptable. They share ways to help without overwhelming kids.
• Martial law in D.C.: Concerns about militarized policing, detainment camps, and historical parallels to authoritarian regimes.
• Marriage equality at risk: The petition to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges sparks fear, frustration, and personal reflections on LGBTQ+ rights.
• Balancing joy and advocacy: From Taylor Swift album drops to quiet acts of rebellion.

Sound Bites

• “All children are our children. And as parents, we have a duty to protect and ensure they have a future.” – Chelsea Myers
• “Protesting might get snuffed out for a while unless we teach our kids how to actively participate in it.” – Britt Sandoval
• “You can care about all children without knowing every political detail — starving a child is not a political stance.” – Jess Rabon
• “Allow yourself to find the glimmers. Rest is resistance.” – Chelsea Myers

Resources for Parents

• Little Justice Leaders – activism resources for families
• A Kids Book About… – accessible introductions to social justice topics
• UNICEF – information on global humanitarian efforts
• Vote Mama Foundation – supporting parents in politics
• Ground News - a platform that makes it easy to compare news sources, read between the lines of media bias and break free from algorithms.
• Vitus "V" Spehar - an accomplished TikToker and political advocate, best known for Under The Desk News™, the GenZ and Millenials go-to source for news.
• Muzzy Brand Dolls - creating opportunities to explor

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How do you talk to kids about race and privilege without the shame, sugarcoating, or awkward silence? 

In this episode of Odd Moms On Call, Chelsea, Tianna, Lindsey, and Brittany get real about the tough but necessary conversations every parent needs to start. 

From picture books and Disney movies to privilege checks and cultural appreciation, we share personal stories, parenting wins and fails, and practical tips to help you guide your kids through big topics with empathy and honesty.

We also dig into:

• What “privilege” actually means (hint: it’s not a dirty word)
• How to handle it when your kid says something racist or ableist
• Ways to model empathy without downplaying your child’s feelings
• Where cultural appreciation ends and appropriation begins
• Why silence and denial make us complicit—and how to do better

Resources and book recommendations are included at the end, so you’ll leave with tools you can use today.

Key Takeaways:

• Privilege isn’t about guilt—it’s about recognizing unearned benefits so we can raise more empathetic, aware kids.
  
  
• Books, shows, and toys with diverse representation are powerful tools for starting conversations early.
  
  
• Kids will make mistakes, repeat harmful phrases, and push back; curiosity and openness create teachable moments.
  
  
• Cultural appreciation is rooted in learning and respect, while appropriation treats cultures as trends.
  
  
• Silence around privilege and injustice isn’t neutral—it perpetuates harm. Speaking up, even with discomfort, matters.

Memorable Soundbites

• “Saying privilege isn’t real doesn’t make you neutral—it makes you complicit.” – Lindsey
  
  
• “Privilege is just an unearned benefit. It doesn’t make you bad, but it does make you responsible.” – Chelsea
  
  
• “Curiosity is the difference between cultural appreciation and appropriation.” – Tianna
  
  
• “When kids say something harmful, don’t shut them down—get curious and make it a learning moment.” – Brittany
  
  
• “Our kids will inherit the lessons we model. Silence and denial can’t be one of them.” – Chelsea

Resource List (from episode)

For Parents:

• So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo
• Raising White Kids by Jennifer Harvey
• Parenting for Liberation by Trina Green Brown

For Kids:

• Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry
• The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson
• Anti-Racist Baby by Ibram X. Kendi
• All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold

Other Resources:

• Code Switch (NPR podcast)
• The Conscious Kid (Instagram & Patreon)
• EmbracingRace.org

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Content Warning: This episode discusses death, miscarriage, medical trauma, abortion, and systemic racism.

In this raw, unfiltered roundtable, the Odd Moms crew dives deep into the state of reproductive rights in America post-Roe. Chelsea, Tianna, Courtney, Lindsey, and special guest Kara Kushnir, LCSW, PMH-C, unpack the heartbreaking story of Adriana Smith, discuss how anti-abortion laws are impacting their personal and professional lives, and explore what it means to parent while feeling politically powerless. From fertility struggles and medical trauma to raising body-literate kids, this conversation is part catharsis, part call to action.

Key Takeaways

• Adriana Smith’s story exemplifies the tragic consequences of extreme abortion laws on women, especially Black women, in the U.S.
• Reproductive rights legislation impacts far more than abortion access; it touches fertility treatment, miscarriage care, and even mental health.
• Personal stories from panelists show how recent laws have altered decisions around family planning, contraception, and privacy.
• Teaching children consent and body autonomy early can be a powerful act of resistance.
• There is hope in raising empowered kids and breaking generational cycles of silence, shame, and misinformation.

Soundbites

• “What does it mean to choose motherhood when the choice is being stripped away from others?” —Tianna
• “Abortion laws don’t reduce abortion. They reduce safe abortion.” —Tianna
• “No is a full sentence. My daughter knows that and she's two.” —Chelsea
• “Pregnancy is not a health-neutral state. One of the risks is death.” —Courtney
• “Being a woman is political. Existing can feel like an act of rebellion.” —Kara

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In a time when gender identity has become a political lightning rod, we gather a powerful panel of moms from across the U.S. to talk openly, honestly, and compassionately about parenting in a world on fire. 

From navigating legislation targeting LGBTQ+ youth to raising non-binary kids, our conversation goes deep—but never without humor and heart. We share personal stories, offer practical ways to support our kids, and highlight why kids aren’t too young to understand acceptance. 

Featuring hosts Chelsea Myers, Britt Sandoval, Lindsey Basler, Jess Rabon, and new panelist Tianna Trinidad, this episode reminds us that change starts at home—and sometimes, in the school pick-up line.

Takeaways

• Children are capable of understanding complex topics like gender identity.
• Parents should create safe spaces for their children to explore their identities.
• The political landscape significantly impacts the lives of LGBTQIA+ individuals.
• Educators play a crucial role in supporting gender diversity in schools.
• Open conversations about gender should start at a young age.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of gender identity.
• Community support is vital for LGBTQIA+ families.
• The younger generation is more informed and accepting of diverse identities.
• Anticipatory grief can affect parents' acceptance of their child's identity.
• Celebrating small wins in the fight for LGBTQIA+ rights is important.

Check out these resources if you want to learn more about gender identity, supporting loved ones, and raising kind and caring kids:

•  The Trevor Project
•  ACLU’s LGBTQ+ Rights Tracker
•  Just Breathe Podcast for LGBTQ Parents
•   What Are Your Words? – A children’s book on pronouns
   

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 🎙️ Odd Moms On Call is back with one of our biggest panels yet! 

In this episode, Britt, Chelsea, Lindsey, Midori, and Jess dive headfirst into the recent dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education — and how it's already impacting families, students, teachers, and even homeschoolers across the country. 

From the ripple effects on DEI programs and public school funding to the chaos around student loans and civil rights protections, we get real about what’s happening, what it means for our kids, and where we go from here. 

Plus, we introduce our brand-new “Hot Takes” segment with a spicy debate: Are schools childcare? Spoiler: it’s complicated. Buckle up — it’s a passionate, honest, and deeply personal conversation about raising kids in this political chaos. 

🎧 Tune in and join the conversation. Your voice matters. 

Takeaways

• The Odd Moms On Call podcast offers raw and unfiltered conversations about parenting.
• The dismantling of the Department of Education is a significant concern for many parents.
• DEI initiatives are often misunderstood and misrepresented in public discourse.
• Public education is crucial for social interaction and development in children.
• The Department of Education's role is to ensure equal access to education, not to dictate curricula.
• Dismantling educational departments without a clear plan can lead to chaos and harm.
• Local elections significantly impact educational policies and funding.
• Homeschooling is a viable option, but not everyone has the privilege to choose it.
• Teachers are not babysitters; they play a vital role in education and child development.
• The discussion around education is nuanced and varies based on personal experiences and circumstances.

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Motherhood can be beautiful, but it can also be brutal—especially when it comes to mental health. 

In this episode of Odd Moms On Call, our panel of mothers and mental health professionals has an unfiltered conversation about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), birth trauma, and the systemic failures that leave mothers struggling. 

We share personal experiences with postpartum depression and anxiety, discuss the stigma surrounding medication and mental health care, and explore the critical role of community support in healing. Plus, we take on the impact of censorship in mental health conversations and why we need to advocate for real, accessible resources. 

If you've ever felt unseen or silenced in your postpartum journey, this one's for you. 

Takeaways

• One in five birthing people experience PMADs.
• PMADs can occur anytime during pregnancy and postpartum.
• Birth trauma can significantly impact mental health.
• Community support is crucial for mothers experiencing PMADs.
• It's important to recognize and validate feelings of birth trauma.
• Many mothers suffer in silence due to stigma.
• Access to mental health care is critical for new parents.
• Miscarriage can lead to complex emotional responses.
• The pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges for mothers.
• Advocating for oneself is key to receiving help. We're the worst, I think we're the worst of all developed nations.
• We don't really talk about the stuff that happens postpartum.
• Medication isn't for everyone, obviously.
• Therapy is a privilege.
• You are worthy of help.
• Community is so immensely supportive.
• No shame in the med game.
• We need to find some pocket friends.
• You deserve support.
• We don't support mental health as we should in this country.

Sound Bites

"One in five birthing people experience PMADs."

"We need to talk about postpartum psychosis more."

"It's okay to not be okay."

"Motherhood is hard, and that's okay."

"It's common, but not normal."

"We are the lucky ones who got help."

"Therapy is a privilege."

"Community is so immensely supportive."

"Medication isn't for everyone, obviously."

"No shame in the med game."

"We need to find some pocket friends."

"You deserve support."

"You are worthy of help."

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Ever had to choose between a doctor’s visit and groceries? You're not alone. In this episode of Odd Moms On Call, we’re tackling the frustrating, confusing, and often expensive world of healthcare—comparing the U.S. and Canadian systems through real-life mom experiences. From insurance headaches to the struggle of finding mental health support, we’re breaking down what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change.

Spoiler alert: There was way too much to cover in just one episode! We’ll be diving even deeper into this topic in a future conversation, so stay tuned. In the meantime, grab your coffee (or wine), and let's talk about the healthcare hurdles parents face and how we can push for something better.

Takeaways:

• Healthcare in the U.S. is often tied to employment and insurance coverage.
• Many Americans face medical debt due to unexpected healthcare costs.
• Preventative care is crucial but often underfunded in the U.S. system.
• Canadian healthcare provides access without debt, but has its own challenges.
• Emergency room wait times can vary significantly between the U.S. and Canada.
• Personal experiences significantly influence one’s viewpoint on healthcare systems.
• Access to family doctors is a growing issue in Canada.
• The for-profit nature of US healthcare impacts patient care.
• Insurance reimbursement rates can affect the availability of services.
• Student loan debt is a significant barrier for healthcare providers. Insurance inequities lead to significant disparities in access to care.
• In the U.S., children on state insurance face long wait times for mental health services.
• Canada's healthcare system has long wait times for specialists, including mental health professionals.
• Occupational therapy is often not covered by private insurance in Canada.
• Private insurance in Canada can be costly and may not cover essential services.
• Emergency care in Canada is generally effective, but preventative care is lacking.
• Healthcare workers in Canada face low pay and burnout, impacting the system’s effectiveness.
• Personal stories illustrate the financial burden of healthcare in both countries.
• Preventive care and mental health support are crucial for a healthier society.
• The conversation highlights the need for systemic changes in healthcare policy. 

Sound Bites:

"It's been a huge, huge thing for me."

"We need to find a middle ground."

"It's a cyclical scam."

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