In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the experience of Oliver preferring a particular parent, their feelings about this (and the relief of not always being the "chosen one"), how age plays a role and whether this is something to indulge or not.

We loved hearing from Marco on parental pride. If you want to chime into the conversation, reach out at [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• From the New York Times: "Why Does My Kid Prefer My Partner?" by Jessica Grose
• From Big Little Feelings: "Managing Parent Preference"
• Lucy Huber's tweet (@clhubes)

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the fascinating phenomenon of parental pride - where does it come from, what about it is natural, and when does it become unhealthy? They also discuss some postures that can offer a different way of appreciating kids.

You might not miss us, but we miss you. If you want to chime into the conversation, reach out at [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
• Timeless on Hulu
• "Does My Son Know You?" by Jonathan Tjarks

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss the physical toll of toddlers on their parents, both the obvious ("collateral damage of play") and the more subtle. Plus some fun other stuff.

Have other physical tolls we didn't mention? Let us know at [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• A study on parental sleep (or lack thereof): "Long-term effects of pregnancy and childbirth on sleep satisfaction and duration of first-time and experienced mothers and fathers" by David Richter, Michael D Krämer, Nicole K Y Tang, Hawley E Montgomery-Downs, and Sakari Lemola  
• The Address Book by Deirdre Mask 

In this episode, Matt and Rachel come fresh off an argument to talk about the bests and worsts of vacations with a toddler including the extra travel time, afternoon siestas, and just how close Matt's vacation rhythm is to that of a toddler.

What are your bests and worsts of vacations? Let us know at [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• "Seventeen Hip Pack" aka Rachel's Re-Branded Fanny Pack

In this episode, Matt and Rachel share about a recent pool incident where neither of them wanted to be there and how we might think about doing things we don't want to for/with our kids. It quickly shifts and expands to a conversation about our expectations.

And as always, we welcome your feedback and thoughts - just drop a note to [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• Bluey: Helicopter
• The Ezra Klein Show: "Relationships Are Hard. This Unusual Parenting Theory Can Help."
• Dadville with Andrew Peterson
• Mama Bear Video 

In this episode, Matt and Rachel give an update on the state of the pod and take turns sharing defining characteristics of Oliver at the burgeoning age of 2. Enjoy!

And as always, we welcome your feedback and thoughts - just drop a note to [email protected].

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Karissa-recommended book: How to Talk So Little Kids Will Listen by Joanna Faber & Julie King
• "The Pool Song" aka "The World es mi Familia"
• Oliver performing with backup dancer Balou 

Matt and Rachel are on vacation this week but for a few brief minutes they're joined by the one who makes the podcast possible - Oliver! And then he leaves.

Anyway, we'll be back in a week with a normal episode, a recap of some travel, and some reflections on being a parent of a 2-year-old. Plus, we'll talk about the state of the podcast.

Want to weigh in about whether we should continue? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode, Matt and Rachel discuss what it means to be happy as a parent (and whether it's possible!).  Prompted by recent ups and downs (including an Oliver/Matt meltdown), it's we enjoyed the conversation!

Plus, we end the episode with some favorite books in the segment "Quiet Play Companions."

Mentioned in this episode:

• Paul Bloom, "What Becoming a Parent Really Does to Your Happiness"
• The New One by Mike Birbiglia 
• The Maid by Nita Prose
• City of Brass by S. A. Chakraborty 

In this episode, Matt and Rachel share a host of parenting peeves. They've refrained from unburdening themselves to date but it comes tumbling out now! Here them go on (and on) about sippy cups, eating out with toddlers, and more. 

Plus, I'm Not Just a Parent.

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Popcast with Knox and Jamie: The More You Know - Fixing Zac Efron and Parenting Snake Draft
• Notion (Rachel's note-taking app)

For the first time, it's Matt only. If you want to skip this one, we understand. He just tells you that we're delaying our episode a week because we're busy and asks you to send any good parenting resources to [email protected]