Feeling guilty for wanting five minutes alone? Same. In this candid Mom Panel episode, Jackie, Michelle, Jill, and Tiesha get real about mom guilt and the essential role of me-time in preventing burnout. We talk bedtime routines that create breathing room, early-morning resets, realistic micro breaks (hello, 10-minute walk), and reframing self-care as the fuel that makes you a better parent and partner—not a selfish act.

You’ll also hear a sweet peek into family traditions (Rosh Hashanah, apple picking), how to prep siblings for a new baby with 1:1 time, and why two things can be true: you love your kids deeply and you need a break. We close with a reminder that you matter—your mental health, your marriage/partnership, and your identity beyond motherhood.

What you’ll learn

• How to reframe me-time so it actually reduces guilt
• Micro me-time ideas that fit busy days (5–15 minutes)
• Bedtime and morning routines that create consistent breathing room
• Making space for your partner and each child without adding hours to the day
• Signs you’re overdue for a reset (impatience, snap responses, simmering burnout)
• Simple language to explain early bedtimes/daylight changes to kids

Callouts from the convo

• “Two things can be true: devoted mom and me-time.”
• “If you don’t pause, burnout does the pausing for you.”
• “Me-time is how I show up better for my family.”

Resources mentioned
– Weekly therapy/care hour as a standing appointment
– Early bedtime windows for kids to protect adult recharge time
– 10-minute walk + quick friend call = fast nervous-system reset

Want to be a guest on our podcast? Contact us at: [email protected]