The WandHERwild Podcast — Adventure, Wonder & Modern Motherhood

What does everyday life look like as an American mom raising kids in Norway? In this soulful episode of The WandHERwild Podcast, I share my 14-year expat journey that began in Kuwait and Angola and eventually led my family to Bergen.

I open up about Norway’s 8 to 4 work culture that values balance and family time, my children’s Montessori-style forest school, and the surprising tradition of outdoor naps even in freezing weather. I also talk about the social systems that support families, such as public healthcare, tuition-free education, and government stipends that help balance higher taxes. Through my own experiences with pregnancy, including an emergency C-section, pediatric care, and staying connected to family across continents, I hope to give you a grounded glimpse into what it really means to raise a family. Norway is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world.

In this episode, I discuss:

* What 14 years of expat life taught me about motherhood and resilience

* How Norway’s 8 to 4 work culture supports families

* Why Montessori-inspired forest schools encourage independence

* The reality of childcare costs and government support in Norway

* My personal journey with public healthcare, including an emergency C-section

* The unique parenting practices of outdoor naps and independent travel for kids

✨ Read my Business Insider feature “I'm an American Raising My Kids in Norway”

✨ Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

✨ Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

✨ Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

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What if the pressure to do it all perfectly was the very thing holding you back? For Sarah Horgan, kindergarten teacher, mother, and host of Simple + Intentional, a stage four cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for redefining her life. What began as survival turned into a journey of self-love, simplicity, and bold, intentional living.

In this conversation, Sarah shares how she let go of perfectionism and people-pleasing, embraced decluttering as a path to freedom, and found grounding through meditation. She reminds us that “done is better than perfect,” and that saying no, simplifying, and choosing authenticity are not luxuries but necessities—especially in motherhood.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by clutter, trapped by expectations, or afraid to pursue your creativity for fear of judgment, this episode will leave you both inspired and empowered to live more boldly.

👇 In this episode, we explore:

* How a cancer diagnosis transformed Sarah’s perspective on life

* Why “done is better than perfect” helps women move past fear

* Quick decluttering strategies that free both home and mind

* The hidden weight of people-pleasing and how to set boundaries

* How meditation builds self-awareness and presence in motherhood

* Why living boldly matters more than playing small

What’s one area of your life where you’re ready to let go of “perfect” and make it simpler?

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

About Sarah Horgan

Sarah Horgan is a kindergarten teacher, coach, mother, and host of the Simple + Intentional podcast. Her journey toward simplicity began after a stage four cancer diagnosis in 2014 and deepened when she became a mom. Through her work, Sarah helps women declutter their homes and lives, set boundaries, and embrace intentional living rooted in self-love and ease.

Website:

https://www.simpleintentional.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simpleintentional

Listen to The Simple + Intentional Podcast

Every child has a unique birth chart, and at the heart of it, their moon sign reveals how they process emotions, connect with others, and feel most supported.

In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, I share how astrology can become a powerful tool for conscious parenting during the back-to-school season. I walk you through the four elements — Earth, Water, Fire, and Air — and explain how each one shapes your child’s emotional world and what they may need most as routines shift:

🌍 Earth signs need grounding and connection to nature 💧 Water signs are sensitive and intuitive, needing emotional validation 🔥 Fire signs are energetic and expressive, thriving with active outlets 🌬️ Air signs are communicative and idea-driven, needing space to share thoughts

I am also offering free mini birth chart readings for the first 10 sign-ups. You’ll get insights into your child’s moon and Mercury signs along with personalized tips to support your family through this school transition.

🌙 Sign up for a free mini birth chart reading: https://airtable.com/appR4bemzKm37UQDp/shrLjWBbOkrzVqNko

In this episode we explore

* How your child’s moon sign explains their emotions

* Practical ways to support Earth, Water, Fire, and Air kids during back-to-school

* How astrology can give parents new tools for conscious, mindful parenting

Check out the Pattern App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/the-pattern/id1071085727

In this birthday-themed episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica shares a reflection on personal growth, the themes and lessons that each year of life bring, and how this birthday is inspiring her to prioritize longevity. Go on a journey—from wild teenage years to rooting into family life—and reflect on your own themes and lessons. This episode is also a gentle call to step into your next chapter with clarity, connection, and care.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* How each birthday year carries its own lessons and themes

* Why longevity and vitality are now speaking to Monica's path

* The gift Monica is extending to listeners during this week

* Why winter is the perfect season for mother-child bonding and restoration

* 3 soulful reasons to join the Wanderwild Family Retreats Winter Mom+Child Retreat February 14-17, 2026

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Welcome to The Wand(HER)wild Podcast

[00:37] A Birthday Reflection: Monica opens with birthday reflection and introduces the theme of reclaiming movement, strength, and longevity.

[01:08] Seasons of Life: She reflects on the distinct themes of life across different ages—from teen nostalgia to rooting down while building a home and family.

[02:15] Longevity as a New Priority: Turning 38 shifts Monica’s focus toward body and mind longevity—not out of fear, but for strength and well being.

[03:10] Her Vision Board for Wellness: She shares new personal practices for a healthier, more self-care focused lifestyle including meal planning, screen-free weekends, and shared family duties.

[04:20] The Winter Retreat Invitation: Monica offers a heartfelt invitation and $380 birthday discount to the February 14-17, 2026 Mother+Child Winter Retreat.

[05:12] Why Winter Retreats Matter: Three core reasons for choosing a winter retreat: self-restoration, screen-free presence with your child, and redefining Valentine’s Day.

[06:33] Final Thoughts & Ways to Connect: Monica closes by encouraging listeners to leave a review, book a retreat, or connect over email or events.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica shares an open conversation reflection on reconnecting with movement, creativity, and the community’s evolving needs. She invites listeners into the vision for Wanderwild Family Retreats and Wand(HER)wild —from retreats and virtual events to conscious travel services—while asking what kind of soulful support you’re truly craving right now.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Creativity and movement can happen together—ditch perfection and honor real-life inspiration.

* The Wand(HER)wild podcast is evolving—more structure, more guests, more depth.

* Monica is craving input from the community to guide future episodes and offerings.

* New retreat offerings include mother-child retreats, family retreats (with dads), and custom private group retreats.

* Wand(HER)wild’s digital events are designed for impact and ease—think cacao circles, time-bending workshops, and nature rituals.

* Astrology, especially synastry and parenting insights, will be more integrated in future content.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Introduction: Monica shares why she's recording this episode on-the-go instead of writing, embracing a more mobile, intuitive creative process.

[02:15] Weather, Movement & Alignment: She reflects on the impact of seasonal shifts and her renewed commitment to daily movement and outdoor living.

[03:40] Turning the Tables, A Call to the Community: Monica invites listeners to share their needs, desires, and what kind of community support would be most meaningful right now.

[05:20] Creating From a Place of Deep Listening: She discusses how she builds offerings from observation, intuition, and real-life feedback from the community.

[07:00] Podcast Evolution & Guest Invitations: The show is growing with more structure, more guests—and an open invitation for listeners to suggest or become guests themselves.

[09:05] What Do You Want to Hear More Of?: Topics Monica is considering include astrology, expat life, parenting abroad, and conscious family travel—what do you want?

[11:00] Retreats in the Works for 2026: She outlines the current Catskills mom & child retreats and floats ideas for family retreats with dads, new locations, and custom group offerings.

[15:40] The Digital Retreat Space: She invites feedback on the virtual community, shares recent offerings, and emphasizes accessibility and emotional impact.

[17:25] Sneak Peek, Autumn Audio Event: An upcoming audio series is in the works to help moms navigate the busy fall season with grounding and intention.

[18:50] A Heartfelt Thank You & Invitation: Monica closes with gratitude and a reminder that this experience is co-created—your voice matters here.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica sits down with Matrescence guide and writer Kate Seaton to explore the transformative journey of motherhood. Together, they unpack the meaning of Matrescence, the power of telling your motherhood story, and why honoring this rite of passage is essential for healing, connection, and self-understanding.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* The word Matrescence (the transformation a woman undergoes as she becomes a mother) validates the complex shifts that occur during motherhood.

* Kate’s professional pivot from brand strategist to mother story guide was inspired by her own Matrescence journey and the emotional impact of capturing mothers’ experiences.

* Matrescence affects identity, career, relationships, spiritual beliefs, and more—every mother experiences it differently.

* Simply learning about Matrescence can help prevent postpartum depression by contextualizing emotional shifts.

* Vulnerability is a strength and gateway to deeper wisdom and community.

* Storytelling and communal reflection help mothers process and integrate their journeys more meaningfully.

* Motherhood documentation (like Kate’s The Motherlines) offers legacy and depth to family stories, showing mothers as whole, evolving humans.

* Reclaiming feminine wisdom through motherhood challenges patriarchal narratives and offers collective healing.

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[01:00] Meet Kate Seaton: Monica introduces Kate, a Matrescence guide, birth story listener, and founder of The Motherlines.

[03:20] Discovering Matrescence: Kate explains how learning the word Matrescence during a copywriting project reshaped her purpose.

[06:40] Career Realignment through Motherhood: Kate describes how becoming a mother pulled her away from misaligned work and toward story work.

[09:05] The Power of Naming Matrescence: Giving language to the maternal identity shift can help prevent postpartum depression and offer healing.

[11:30] Feminism and Motherhood Can Coexist: Kate unpacks the internal tension many mothers feel in reconciling motherhood with feminist identity.

[14:00] Unique but Universal Transformation: Every woman experiences Matrescence differently; grief and joy often coexist.

[16:20] Starting Your Matrescence Journey: Kate recommends learning the term, seeking community, and exploring reflective practices like birth story work.

[19:30] Community as Healing: Monica and Kate discuss how witnessing each other’s stories is deeply healing and empowering.

[22:10] The Motherlines: Capturing Motherhood: Kate explains how her business helps mothers preserve their stories and the humanity behind mothers for future generations.

[26:00] Honoring the Hard and the Beautiful: Motherhood is a source of tremendous growth—but that doesn’t mean it feels good while you’re in it.

[28:45] Rapid Fire: Favorites and Lessons: Kate shares her go-to family activity, drink of choice, astrological signs, and her biggest motherhood lesson.

[30:45] Where to Find Kate & Special Offer: Listeners can connect with Kate at themotherlines.com and use code WILD for $50 off her offerings.

Kate Seaton is a matrescence guide, mother of two, and professional writer. Her work centers on matrescence — the self-transformational journey women experience as they become mothers — and offers ways to process, celebrate and feel supported through motherhood. Kate is a certified Birth Story Listener by the School of Birth Story Medicine, a facilitator of mother’s circles, and a passionate advocate of anti-patriarchal motherhood and womanhood.

Website: http://themotherlines.comInstagram: @the__motherlines

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this special episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica leads a reflective workshop on Mindful Family Travel—encouraging listeners to plan summer trips with intention, presence, and purpose. Through journaling prompts and quadrant-based reflections, she invites families to explore their desires, design meaningful travel experiences, and advocate for personal joy alongside collective connection. Note that this episode is a playback from a LIVE workshop and it has been edited for brevity and privacy of those who attended in real time.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Why mindful family travel begins with intentional reflection

* How to honor each family member’s needs and preferences

* What it looks like to travel slowly and sustainably

* Why moms must name and advocate for their own desires too

* How to create space for stillness as a part of your itinerary

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction: Monica kicks off the episode and sets the tone for intentional family travel.

[01:50] What Is Mindful Travel?: A powerful definition that centers presence, connection, and curiosity.

[04:50] Childhood Reflections & Future Intentions: Reflecting on past vacations and the emotional legacy we want to create.

[07:30] Summer for the Whole Family: Mapping each person’s travel desires—including yours.

[10:12] Conscious Destination Design: Planning with intention, sustainability, and community connection.

[12:54] Stillness as a Travel Companion: Creating space for doing nothing—and why that’s everything.

[13:30] Integration & What’s Coming Up: Monica encourages listeners to revisit their travel intentions, join the WhatsApp community, and mark their calendars for the upcoming Pilates Fusion event.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica is joined by wellness leader and retreat facilitator Tommie Burch to explore Pilates Fusion, intuitive movement, and reclaiming your strength within motherhood. From post-pandemic pivots to practical self-care, this conversation is a reminder that feeling strong—physically and emotionally—is a powerful act of self-love.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Why movement is more than physical—it’s a pathway to mental clarity and emotional regulation

* The importance of intuitive fitness and choosing modalities that meet you where you are

* How Pilates Fusion blends structure and freedom to create sustainable strength

* Why moms need mindful movement that adapts to their evolving season of life

* The connection between strength and self-esteem in motherhood

* What it looks like to build a business from passion and pivot through aligned opportunities

* Why saying yes, before you feel ready, can be the key to discovering your true path

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

[00:00] The Power of Feeling Strong: Monica opens with a reflection on how intuitive movement and strength training help build confidence and self-esteem in motherhood.

[01:30] Meet Tommie Burch: Monica introduces Tommie as a certified yoga and Pilates instructor, children’s book author, and core member of Wanderwild Family Retreats.

[04:10] From Layoff to Purpose: Tommie shares how losing her job during the pandemic led her to rediscover joy through movement and begin her wellness career.

[07:00] What is Pilates Fusion?: Learn how Tommie blends classical Pilates with barre, yoga, and intuitive teaching to meet women’s evolving energy and needs.

[11:15] Movement as Therapy, Not Obligation: Monica and Tommie discuss how to release guilt around exercise and reframe movement as a gift—not a chore.

[14:30] Time Management, Seasons & Grace: Inspired by recent conversations, Monica shares her evolving relationship with fitness, productivity, and giving herself space as a mom.

[17:45] Say Yes Before You’re Ready: Tommie reflects on the early days of entrepreneurship—saying yes to new opportunities, even when unsure, and learning as she grew.

[21:20] Overcoming Fear of Judgment: Tommie opens up about the vulnerability of showing up online, embracing authenticity, and letting go of external validation.

[25:00] Building a Life Around What You Love: The conversation turns to values-aligned living, trusting your gut, and staying true to your unique gifts—even when it’s scary.

[28:30] Movement Is Mental Health: Why movement helps process emotion, builds resilience, and reconnects us to our wholeness—especially in the postpartum years.

[30:40] Lessons from Motherhood — Surrender: Tommie shares how becoming a mom taught her to let go of rigidity, lean into presence, and listen more closely to her daughter and herself.

[33:00] How to Connect with Tommie: Tommie shares details on her upcoming Pilates Fusion class, her current projects, and where to find her online.

[36:00] Final Words & Invitation to Join: Monica wraps the conversation with an invitation to connect further through Wand(HER)wild retreats and virtual offerings.

Tommie Burch is a certified instructor in yoga, barre, mat pilates, apparatus pilates, and spin. She is also a children's book author of 'Being Me Is Special'. Tommie has also been the Wellness Lead at Wanderwild Family Retreats since 2023. Her classes incorporate not just physical practice, but a spiritual intention to focus on mental and emotional health. Tommie lives in upstate New York and has a 2.5-year-old daughter.

Instagram: @balancebytommie

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica reflects post-Mother’s Day with realistic gift giving ideas designed to support—not overwhelm—moms. From spring cleaning services to solo time and self-advocacy, it’s a refreshing conversation about what mothers actually want: ease, presence, and practical joy. Perfect for any season of motherhood, and any time of the year. Even though Mother’s Day has passed, it’s a reminder to advocate for what you need throughout the year—whether it’s your birthday, baby shower, or summer break with kids in tow.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Why commercialized Mother’s Day doesn’t always hit the mark

* The importance of advocating for the support you actually want

* Five refreshingly useful and non-materialistic gift ideas for moms (any time)

* Why experiences and functional support beat out flowers and trinkets

* How to reimagine holidays around sustainability and simplicity

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

And hit reply to share your thoughts—what gifts would bring you ease, presence, and joy in this season of life?

Time Stamps

[00:00] Let’s Talk About What Moms Really Want: Monica shares a heartfelt wish to swap clutter for clarity.

[01:45] The Mental Load & Mixed Messages Around Mother’s Day: Is one day enough to celebrate all moms carry?

[03:30] A Growing Resistance To Commercialized Holidays: More meaning, less pressure to buy.

[08:00] Redefining Gift-Giving: Choosing what actually helps, not what clutters.

[12:00] Advocate for What You Want—Without Guilt: One mom asking for what she needs creates ripple effects.

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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Are you a mom juggling all the roles—career, caregiving, self-growth—and craving more balance? In this episode of The Wand(HER)wild Podcast, Monica chats with mom of four and time management coach Marisa Lonic. Together, they dive into how modern mothers can reclaim their time, reconnect to their true pace, and tap into intentional living through "Time Momagement." You'll walk away with a fresh sense of clarity, inspiration, and real tools to support your growth as a mother and woman. Whether you’re navigating a new season, shifting careers, or trying to breathe amidst the spring-to-summer chaos, this episode is your grounding anchor.

Key Takeaways From the Episode:

* Why moms need a unique approach to time management—aka “Time Momagement”

* How to shift from depletion to alignment as a working mom

* The power of saying “It’s not a priority” and how it reveals your truth

* Why changing pace is essential in motherhood seasons

* Practical strategies to stay productive and present

Read or listen to the full story on our website or wherever you get your podcasts.

Time Stamps

[00:00] Meet Guest MarisaIntroduction to Marisa’s dynamic background as a mom of four, author, speaker, and life and business coach.

[04:10] Marisa’s Journey into MotherhoodMarisa shares her twin birth story and the early challenges of navigating motherhood while climbing the corporate ladder.

[07:22] The Breaking Point & The Promotion RegretA pivotal moment of decision, regret, and eventual breakthrough that reshaped her relationship with time and ambition.

[10:35] Birth of Mama Work ItHow a lack of working mom mentorship led Marissa to create her own platform for real stories, time strategies, and empowerment.

[13:47] Time "Momagement" DefinedA powerful reframing of time management for moms: prioritizing yourself back into your life with presence and purpose.

[17:02] Tips for the Spring-to-Summer TransitionStrategies to stay grounded and productive amid seasonal changes, school breaks, and sick days.

[20:33] Permission to Shift the PaceWhy it’s OK that your timeline looks different now—and how to own that shift without guilt.

[23:16] The Magic of PrioritizationA simple language shift that can transform your relationship with time: replace “I don’t have time” with “It’s not a priority.”

Marisa Lonic is a certified intuitive life & business coach, keynote speaker, 3x author, top-rated podcast host and the founder of Mama Work It and Marisa Lonic Coaching & Consulting. After spending nearly 15 years in corporate leadership positions, Marisa shifted gears to become a full-time Time Momager & Biz Momager. Through her books, courses, and coaching programs, she helps busy moms juggling mom life, work life, wife life, fill in the blank life. Her time management and goal achievement strategies have helped the most overwhelmed mamas turn their dreams into reality, even when they thought they had no time to make any of it happen.

When she’s not supporting others with the daily juggle, you can find her cooking and baking delicious meals her kids may or may not eat, running (ok fine - walking/running) in her neighborhood, and hanging out with the five amazing guys she calls family (her husband and four kiddos).Join Marisa’s Time MOMagement program

Grab Marisa’s Freebie: The Three-Day Test or Habit Accountability Tool

Website: http://www.mamaworkit.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letmamaworkit

Quick Links:

Wand(HER)wild | Digital Events for Moms

Wanderwild Family Retreats | In Person Retreats

Grab A Virtual Coffee with Monica

Subscribe to Wand(HER)wild’s Substack for bi-weekly newsletters or follow our podcast on Apple or follow our podcast on Spotify to never miss an episode. Leave a review to support our work. Thank you for listening!

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