The Real Family Eats: Dishing on real parenting struggles and favorite recipes

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this deeply moving episode, Jillian Cajigas, mom of one, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to share her emotional journey through pregnancy loss, high-risk pregnancy, and early sobriety. Jillian opens up about her struggles with uterus didelphys, the grief of a prior miscarriage, and the overwhelming feeling that her body had failed her. She reflects on how she navigated mental health challenges, found support, and worked toward healing while preparing to welcome her child.

As they discuss parenting resilience, loss, and emotional recovery, Jillian also shares her go-to Korean Beef recipe—a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for busy parents looking to create meaningful moments around the dinner table.

🔹 Subscribe, like, and follow for more authentic parenting stories, mental health insights, and easy, family-friendly recipes!

💬 What’s been your biggest parenting challenge? Share your story in the comments!

🥢 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

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Keto Korean Ground Beef Bowl Recipe

Credit: https://lowcarbyum.com/korean-beef-paleo-recipe/

INGREDIENTS:

1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil

1 ¼ pound lean ground beef

3 cloves garlic minced

½ teaspoon SweetLeaf stevia drops

½ teaspoon blackstrap molasses can be left out or replaced with a low carb sweetener

¼ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos for paleo

½ teaspoon fresh ginger minced or a couple dashes ground ginger

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper I like it spicy, use less if desired

1 bunch green onions sliced

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown ground beef with garlic in the oil. Drain off fat.

2. Add stevia, molasses, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper.

3. Simmer and stir for a few minutes to blend seasonings.

4. Serve over cauliflower rice and top with sliced green onions.

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Disclaimer:

The insights shared on this platform are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice or treatment.

For crisis situations or ongoing mental health concerns, contact a licensed mental health provider or your local crisis hotline.

Views expressed are those of the individuals speaking and do not represent this channel’s official stance.

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Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this candid episode, Jennifer Lebrick, mom of two, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to dive into the challenges of being a full-time breadwinner while raising a family. Jennifer shares her journey of balancing career demands, societal expectations, and parenting pressures. From the sacrifices she made, including missing precious moments with her kids, to the strain it placed on her family relationships, Jennifer's story is one of resilience and love.

🎧 Listen as they discuss:

• 💡 Strategies for managing work-life balance as a parent
• 💔 The emotional toll of juggling career and motherhood
• 💪 How to overcome societal pressure and redefine "being a good mom"

As they share heartfelt parenting insights, Jennifer also reveals her favorite Lemon Bar recipe—a simple yet delicious dessert that brings a sense of balance and joy to family life.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Audience Takeaways:

💬 What parenting challenges have you faced? Share your story in the comments!🍋 Tried the Lemon Bar recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and follow for more real parenting stories, actionable tips, and family-friendly recipes.

****** 

Credit: https://www.lecremedelacrumb.com/cream-cheese-lemon-bars/

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup (2 sticks) butter - chilled and cut into small cubes

8 ounces cream cheese - softened

2 cups granulated sugar

¼ cup flour

¾ cups fresh-squeezed lemon juice

⅓ cup powdered sugar - plus more for topping

6 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9×13 inch pan with foil or parchment with plenty of overhang around the edges to lift the bars out of the pan before cutting.

2. Prepare the crust by combining flour, sugars, salt, and butter cubes in a food processor or blender. Cover and pulse until fine crumbs form. 

3. Press crust into prepared pan and bake for 10 minutes while you prepare the filling.

4. Prepare the filling by combining cream cheese and sugar in a large bowl. Cream together until smooth. Mix in flour, powdered sugar, lemon juice, eggs, and vanilla until completely incorporated.

5. Pour filling over crust and return to oven for 30 minutes.

6. Allow to cool for about 20 minutes, then cover and transfer chill in the fridge 4 hours or overnight. 

Disclaimer: The statements made by our host(s) and guests represent their own opinions and not necessarily those of this podcast/YouTube channel.

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Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

two and Marriage and Family Therapist, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to share his inspiring story. John opens up about:

• Parenting while deployed
• His journey of recovery from alcohol abuse
• The intentional steps he took to build a stronger connection with his child

Discover relatable insights, powerful resources, and emotional stories of resilience. Plus, don’t miss John sharing his cherished Gram Gram’s Banana Bread recipe—a nostalgic family favorite that brings warmth and love to the table.

✅ Subscribe for uplifting parenting stories, actionable tips, and comforting recipes!

💬 What parenting challenges have you faced? Share your story in the comments!

🍌 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find John:

 [email protected]

****** 

Gram Gram's banana bread (with or without nuts) 

INGREDIENTS:

2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour 

1 cup of sugar 

3 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder 

3 table spoons of oil

3/4 cup of milk

1 egg

1 cup of finely chopped nuts (optional)

1 cup of ripe bananas (mashed) 2-3 banana make 1 cup

1/2 brown sugar (hold for sprinkling)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Grease and flour bread pan 9"x5"x3"

3. Mix all ingredients in a large mixing bowl on medium for 30 seconds.

4. Scrap the sides and pour into pan.  

5. Bake for 35 minutes.   

6. Pull from oven and sprinkle brown sugar on the top.  

7. Return to oven and bake for 20-30 minutes.  

8. Check after 20 with wooden toothpick. 
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Disclaimer:
The discussions and content on this podcast/YouTube channel are for general educational use and are not a substitute for professional mental health advice or treatment.

If you require support, please consult a licensed therapist. For emergencies, contact a crisis hotline or local emergency services.

The viewpoints of the host(s) and guests are their own and not indicative of the platform’s stance.

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this candid episode, Kate Anderson, mom of three and owner of Kate Anderson Fitness, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to explore the challenges of raising children with vastly different personalities. Kate opens up about the struggle of recognizing how her own negative self-talk influenced her children’s inner narratives and the steps she’s taking to break the cycle of self-criticism.

As they discuss parenting strategies, self-awareness, and personal growth, Kate also shares her recipe for a Big Mac Casserole—a creative, family-friendly twist on a fast-food classic that’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Subscribe, like, and follow for heartfelt parenting stories, actionable tips, and delicious recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!
🍔 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

 
Find Kate at:
https://www.facebook.com/kateandersonfitness
[email protected]

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Big Mac Casserole

INGREDIENTS:
2 lbs of lean ground meat
1 c Thousand Island dressing
1/4 c mayonnaise
1 c diced yellow onion
1 c diced dill pickle
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1 cup shredded triple cheddar cheese blend
24 oz frozen tater tots

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Pre-heat oven to 375.
2. In a large skillet with cooking spray, sauté onions until lightly translucent and add ground meat and brown. 
3. Once cooked through, remove and place in an oven safe casserole dish and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, mix dressing, mayonnaise, dill pickles, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. 
5. Take 3/4 of mixture and combine with the ground meat and half of the cheese. 
6. Top with the remainder of the cheese and cover the whole casserole with tater tots.
7. Cook in the oven until tater tots are golden brown and mixture is bubbling. 
8. Remove from the oven and drizzle the remainder of sauce mixture on top. 
9. Serve on its own or on bed of greens.
 

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Disclaimer:
The content presented here is for informational purposes and does not constitute mental health treatment or professional advice.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please reach out to emergency services or a crisis hotline in your region.

The views shared by participants in the show are their own and do not necessarily align with the platform’s positions.

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this introspective episode, Rachel Sorensen, LMFT, mom of one, and co-founder of Sorensen and Schiller Family Services, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to discuss the deeply personal journey of deciding whether or not to have children. Rachel opens up about the societal pressures she faced to follow traditional life paths and how she navigated the internal conflict between her authentic desires and ingrained expectations.

As they dive into parenting insights, self-discovery, and breaking free from norms, Rachel also shares her go-to Pesto Polenta Brunch recipe—a comforting dish that’s perfect for bringing loved ones together.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more meaningful parenting stories, empowering tips, and delicious recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!
🍴 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find Rachel at: http://www.sorensenandschillerfamilyservices.com/

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Pesto Polenta Brunch

INGREDIENTS:
Pesto (can either buy a store bought one or if you’re going to make, you need basil, pine nuts, salt, pepper, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, parm cheese)
1-2 eggs
Kosher Salt
Pepper
5 minute polenta
Parmesan cheese, grated or can grate fresh
Italian seasonings (couple of dashes)
Grape tomatoes (just a handful) and/or any other veggie you have on hand (asparagus, mushrooms, peppers, etc) all work
Mini baguette or any kind of crusty bread

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. If using store bought pesto, skip to next step.
2. If making pesto, put all ingredients into a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.
3. Get frying pan prepped with oil or oil spray. Make eggs over easy.
4. Once eggs are in pan, move to side and add veggies of choice to pan (salt and pepper them or use everything but the bagel seasoning). Roast veggies till warm/tomatoes till blistered.
5. Heat polenta according to instructions.
6. When complete, add in Parmesan cheese per your taste, 1/2 tbsp Italian seasonings/parsley, dash of salt and pepper (less salt if you put more cheese).
7. Assemble polenta, veggies and egg in a bowl/plate. Top with pesto and enjoy!

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Disclaimer:
Please note that the content shared on this podcast channel is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional therapy or mental health services.

If you are facing a crisis, seek immediate help through emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the platform.

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this compelling episode, Sara Hall—Spanish teacher, mom of two, and author/podcaster—joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to discuss the complexities of raising mixed-race children. Drawing from her own experiences growing up in a mixed-race household, Sara shares how she navigates parenting challenges, especially when her children face situations she can’t personally relate to. She highlights the steps she’s taken to foster inclusivity, empathy, and a deeper understanding within her family.

Alongside this heartfelt conversation, Sara shares her family’s recipe for Martabak—a delicious dish that reflects her cultural roots and brings the family together at the table.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more relatable parenting stories, helpful tips, and tasty recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!
🫔 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find Sara at:
[email protected]
FB: @raisinglegaciespodcast
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/raisinglegacies?
Journals: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B078VHL9MY
Two Homes: https://a.co/d/0D9mOFB
Dos Navidades (Spanish Edition): https://a.co/d/4szCyG3

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Martabak Recipe

INGREDIENTS:
1lb of ground beef
2 cloves of garlic
3 eggs
1 bunch of scallions, sliced
1 package of egg roll wrappers
Salt and Pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. In a wok or skillet, drizzle 1 tbsp oil over medium heat. Add the beef and stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring often and breaking up the beef, until browned. Once Browned, crack the eggs into the mixture and stir until the eggs are thoroughly mixed and cooked. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Once thoroughly cooled, mix scallions into the beef.
3. Place about 1/4c of beef mixture in center of egg roll wrapper. Roll like a burrito.
5. In a deep skillet and add 1c oil over medium heat. Fry the folded Martabak until browned and crisp on each side, about 3 minutes total. Place on towel lined plate.

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Resources:
That’s What I’m All About Course (A guide through Cultural Identity Journal): https://raising-legacies1.teachable.com/p/that-s-what-i-m-all-about1?

Disclaimer: The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or treatment. 

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this insightful episode, Jessica Good, LPC, EMDR Certified Therapist™, and mom of one, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to explore the journey of reparenting while raising a child. Jessica opens up about her recovery from an emotionally immature upbringing, sharing the grief, yearning, and determination to break generational cycles and create a healthier family dynamic.

As they discuss emotional healing, parenting strategies, and personal growth, Jessica also shares her recipe for Spicy Baked Goat Cheese Dip—a flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at family gatherings.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more authentic parenting stories, actionable tips, and mouthwatering recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!

🧀 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find Jessica at:
www.GoodEMDR.com
www.Tiktok.com/@jessicagoodlpc

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Spicy Baked Goat Cheese Dip

INGREDIENTS:
1 Baguette (French or Italian)
4 Tablespoons Olive Oil
2-3 garlic cloves
1 jar of Arrabiata sauce OR a jar of red pasta sauce and some red pepper flakes
1 goat cheese log (at least 4 oz), can be substituted for Boursin cheese if someone hates goat cheese
Fresh basil (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2. Pour 4 tablespoons of olive oil into a small bowl
3. Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic 
4. Add garlic to olive oil, stir it around, set to the side
5. Brush 1/2 inch slices of bread with olive oil and garlic mixture. Toast in the oven until golden, approx 15 min. 
6. Turn oven up to 400 degrees
7. Pour Arrabiata sauce or pasta sauce into the dish until there's approximately 1.5 - 2inches of sauce in the dish. (If using basic red pasta sauce, add red pepper flakes to taste. )
8. Slice goat cheese into approximately 2 inch sections and place into the sauce. For Boursin cheese take 2 inch hunks and place them in the sauce.
9. Bake at 400 degrees until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is becoming gooey (approximately 15 - 20 minutes)
10. Garnish the finished dip with the basil leaves and serve hot with the crostini.

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If you or your loved one is struggling with any of the topics discussed, here are some resources:
Embrace Renewal Therapy & Wellness Collective:
www.embracerenewaltherapy.com

****** 

Disclaimer: The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute treatment. Views expressed are their own and don't necessarily reflect this podcast's.

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this heartfelt episode, Kelly Parker, mom of one and Marriage and Family Therapist, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to share her emotional journey through pre-eclampsia and having a NICU baby. Kelly opens up about the fear, frustration, and challenges of coping with a pregnancy complication and the struggle of feeling like her body “failed” her during this critical time.

As they discuss parenting challenges, support systems, and resilience, Kelly also shares her delicious Tiger Butter and 7-Layer Bar recipes—sweet treats perfect for lifting spirits and bringing families together.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more real parenting stories, helpful tips, and comforting recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!🍫 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find Kelly at: https://headway.co/providers/kelly-parker?utm_source=pem&utm_medium=direct_link&utm_campaign=83138

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7 Layer Bars

INGREDIENTS:
1/2c butter (melted)
1 1/2c crushed graham crackers
1 6 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 6 oz butterscotch pieces
1 1/3c flaked coconut
1/2c chopped walnuts
1 14 oz condensed milk
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat oven at 350F degrees.
2. Grease or line with parchment paper a 13x9 baking pan.
3. Mix melted butter with graham crackers and line the pan.
4. Layer the following: chocolate, butterscotch, walnuts, and coconut
5. Drizzle condensed milk over the pan.
6. Cook for 30 minutes or until melted and slightly browned.

Tiger Butter

INGREDIENTS:
1lb white chocolate, broken into 1-in pieces
1c chunky peanut butter
1c (6 oz) semi-sweet chocolate morsels
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Melt and mix white chocolate and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Spread in a pan covered with parchment paper.
3. Melt chocolate and drizzle through other mixture.
4. Refrigerate until firm.

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If you or your loved one is struggling with any of the topics discussed, here are some resources:
Postpartum Support International:  https://www.postpartum.net/ 

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Disclaimer:
The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or treatment. The views and opinions expressed by the host(s) and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast. 

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this episode, Celeste Hamilton, mom of two and Co-Owner of Hamilton Homes and Loans, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to discuss the complexities of disciplining children and navigating parenting without a handbook. Celeste shares how she and her partner worked through outside pressures to balance discipline with mindfulness for their kids' health and well-being.

As they exchange parenting insights, resources, and tips, Celeste also shares her vibrant salsa recipe—a versatile favorite for family meals or gatherings.

Subscribe, like, and follow for relatable parenting stories, practical tips, and delicious recipes!

💬 What's been a parenting challenge you've faced? Share your story in the comments!

🌶️ Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

Find Celeste: 
FB: @hamirealtor
Insta: @celeste_your_realtor

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Hamilton Zesty Salsa

INGREDIENTS:
2 (15oz) cans organic diced tomatoes
1/3 cup chopped white or sweet onion
2 medium cloves garlic or garlic paste
1 to 2 medium jalapeño peppers, de-seeded
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 to 2 medium limes
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until desired consistency.
3. Serve with chips.

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If you or your loved one is struggling with any of the topics discussed, here are some resources:
Embrace Renewal Therapy & Wellness Collective:
www.embracerenewaltherapy.com

******
Disclaimer:
The content provided on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice or treatment. 

The views and opinions expressed by the host(s) and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast. 

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911

Send us a text with your feedback here!

In this episode, Rachel, mom of two, joins Reesa Morala, LMFT, to share her journey of navigating life as a single parent to a child diagnosed with Type I diabetes. Rachel discusses the fear and challenges that come with managing serious medical needs, including some scary close calls, and how she worked to establish a “new normal” for her family.

As they explore parenting insights, resources, and coping strategies, Rachel also shares her go-to Steak and Potatoes recipe—a classic dish that brings comfort and connection to the dinner table.

Subscribe, like, and follow for more heartfelt parenting stories, helpful tips, and family-friendly recipes!

💬 What parenting challenges have you faced? Share your story in the comments!
🥩 Tried the recipe? Let us know how it turned out!

*****

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Mash
Credit: @yummyRecipes
Ingredients:

For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
1 1/2 lbs sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsps unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season steak bites with salt and pepper.
3. Add the steak bites to the skillet in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding).  Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the steak bites from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted.
6. Return the steak bites to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
8. Place a generous scoop of mashed potatoes on each plate. Top with the garlic butter steak bites.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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If you or your loved one is struggling with any of the topics discussed, here are some resources:
CDC - 3 Ways to Help Manage Your Child's Type 1 Diabetes:
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/caring/3-ways-help-manage-childs-type-1.html

Children with Diabetes: https://childrenwithdiabetes.com/
******
Disclaimer:

The content provided on this podcast is for informational purposes only and doesn't constitute professional advice. The views and opinions expressed by the host(s) and guests are their own.

******
Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide!

Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe!

For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/

If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here:
https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.

Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988

Go to your local hospital or call 911