Feeling like a frazzled mess and want to parent with more peace (without becoming a full-time monk)?

 

In this week’s episode, I'm joined by marriage and family therapist Ashby Lankford. She breaks down several practical strategies you can use in the heat of the moment to find more calm, compassion, and even humor when you're struggling with your kids. 

 

If you're ready to feel a little less frustrated and a little more zen in your parenting, this episode is for you.

 

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/47

Feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle it all with a baby in tow?

 

In this episode, I share my top tips for getting things done, even when it feels impossible. From breaking tasks into bite-sized steps to letting others help (without micromanaging!), these strategies will help you feel accomplished.

 

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/46

Have you or someone you know had a baby in the NICU? It's an experience no parent wants to go through, but there can be some unexpected positives that come out of it.

 

In this episode, I talk with my good friend and coach Margaret Mason Tate about her experience when her son Hamish spent time in the NICU as a newborn. We also discuss tips for managing the emotional trauma of the NICU, both in the moment and even years later. If you're a NICU parent looking for support and perspective, this is the episode for you.

 

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/45

Are you constantly worrying about your baby's safety? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the guidelines and potential risks? In this episode, we'll explore some different hazards and help you understand what's truly dangerous and what's actually safer than you might think.

 

Join me as I share insights from my experience as a sleep consultant, working with countless families and observing their safety practices. I'll discuss the most common mistakes I see parents making, the products and situations that pose the greatest risks, and how to assess hazards more effectively. 

    For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/44

Thinking about hiring overnight newborn care but not sure where to start? In this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about hiring overnight support for your newborn - from finding trustworthy caregivers to understanding costs and asking the right questions during interviews.

 

Join me as I walk you through the essential considerations for hiring overnight newborn care, including how to structure your support schedule, what to expect regarding costs, and why the first few weeks postpartum deserve careful planning. Whether you're expecting your first baby or adding to your family, this episode will help you make informed decisions about newborn care support.

 

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/43

Have you ever wondered about the many paths to parenthood that exist today? In a world where medical technology has opened up so many possibilities, it can be hard to keep track of all the options. As someone who has always been fascinated by babies and fertility, I'm thrilled to dive into this topic with an expert.     Our guest today is Justine Witzke, the founder and CEO of Aligneage Fertility, a boutique sperm bank and fertility consultancy in New York City. With nearly 20 years of experience in reproductive medicine, a master's in public health, and a PhD in translational research, Justine has found her niche in this rapidly evolving field.     In this episode, we explore the wide range of assisted reproductive technologies available, from IVF and egg freezing to sperm and embryo donation. Whether you're currently navigating fertility challenges or simply curious about the latest advancements, this conversation will leave you informed and inspired.     For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/42

Do you feel like you're constantly yelling at your kids and then beating yourself up about it? Parents often hold themselves to impossibly high standards, thinking they need to be perfect and never lose their cool. But here's the truth: it's okay to get frustrated sometimes. Kids can be challenging, and parenting is hard work.

 

By making a few small changes in your mindset and behavior, you can naturally start to yell less without all the guilt and shame. Remember, you're doing the best you can, and that's enough. So let's dive in and explore some practical strategies for managing your emotions, setting boundaries, and being kinder to yourself as a parent.

 

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/41

You may not find the idea of scheduling very sexy, but having your baby on a feeding and sleeping schedule will revolutionize your parenting experience. It allows you to anticipate your baby's needs before they even realize they have them, leading to a happier baby and a more relaxed parent.

 

In this episode, I dispel some common myths about schedules and share my tips for implementing a flexible routine that works for your family. I walk you through my favorite bookend scheduling method and explain how having a predictable flow to your day can actually give you more freedom, not less.

 

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/40

As a newborn care expert with over 30 years of experience, I've seen firsthand how sleep deprivation can take a toll on new parents. But here's the good news: it doesn't have to be this way. With some practical strategies and a shift in mindset, you can actually get the rest you need to thrive during this special time.

 

In this episode, I reshare my top tips for maximizing your sleep with a brand new baby. From creating a calming bedtime routine to taking shifts with your partner, these strategies will help you navigate the newborn phase without losing your mind (or your precious ZZZs).

 

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/39

Think of this as your ultimate survival guide for navigating the crying marathon that can put a damper on your holiday cheer (keep in mind that I can’t do anything about your cranky relatives). I share my top tips and tricks for calming even the fussiest of babies, so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying the magic of the season with your family.

 

From the four main reasons babies cry to techniques like the 5 S's and special rocking methods, I cover it all. By the end of this episode, you'll be a baby-soothing pro equipped with a toolkit of tactics to try the next time your little one is having a meltdown.

 

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/38