Betches Moms

Aleen and Brittany are back this week with a mental health check-in and share how they’ve been coping with postpartum anxiety and depression since having their babies. They open up about living with PPD/PPA and how their mind set haas changed and what they have been doing to help. Plus, they chat about Aleen’s first Mother’s Day and what they did to enjoy their holiday with their families. Then, they read a “Am I A Mom-ster” submission, surrounding how to set boundaries with your partner, and a “No Mom Guilt” where a listener shares how they will be taking a much needed and guilt free vacation.

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Content Warning: This episode discusses topics of child safety, endangerment, and loss of life - which can be unsettling to some. Please use discretion when listening.

This week Aleen and Brittany are joined by the co-owner of Safe Beginnings First Aid, Holly Choi, an expert on infant and toddler-focused safety. Holly starts off by teaching them a new mindset of “Risk vs Hazard'' and how learning the difference will allow moms to look at safety in a new way. Then, they talk about the best ways to babyproof your home inside and out, covering topics like your crib setup, bath time, burn safety, and how you can actually hire a professional “Babyproofer”. Lastly, Holly takes the time to reiterate car seat basics and to remind moms that they don’t need the most expensive equipment to keep their children safe.

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This week Aleen and Brittany are joined by Speech Sisters, Brooke Dwyer and Bridget Hillsberg to chat about one of the biggest milestones in any child’s development, learning how to talk. They start off by covering some of the misconceptions that parents have when their kids are first learning to talk. They reveal that getting your kids to voice their wants and needs first allows them to express their thoughts more effectively than only knowing their ABCs. They teach what imitation or “Parentese” should look and sound like for both you and baby, which is in between baby talk and speaking to your kids like they're 40. Then, they share their thoughts on screen time and how it can be productive, which is actually watching it along with them. Lastly, they give parents the confidence to help get their kid talking by reassuring them that every kid develops at their own pace.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Jenny Best, founder of Solid Starts, to talk all about introducing solid food to your baby, food safety, and so much more. She starts with some practical tips to avoid choking, including a simple trick for helping your baby learn good habits on their own. Next, Aleen and Brittany ask when you should actually start to introduce solids, and which misconceptions new parents need to unlearn. Jenny explains the kicker, that babies have all the protective mechanisms they need and their bodies are just learning to figure things out. Lastly, she advises that when looking into feeding methods, ones that are extremely rigid should come with a big red flag. She reassures that you do not need to choose one singular approach. There are many right ways to feed your baby, and none should come with a side of stress.

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This week, Aleen and Brittany catch us up on recent tonsil surgeries, new allergies, stomach bugs and more. They share their experiences about how they’ve navigated the stress from when their kids have been sick or needed surgery. Then, they read a “Am I The Mom-ster” submission where they give reassurance that setting healthy boundaries when it comes to a pushy mother-in-law is always allowed. Lastly, they close with Aleen’s “No Mom Guilt” and how working through your mom anxieties is all a part of the process.

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This week, Brittany is joined by guest co-host Shira Dreksler (Betches’ Sr. Director of Talent and Community) to chat with children’s book author and mom of two, Charnaie Gordon. Charnaie is here to talk all about navigating conversations around race and diversity with your kids. To start off, Charnaie shares how her love for reading, writing, and literacy led her started her blog and podcast Here Wee Read. They discuss the importance of diverse books, and classic children’s books that actually have negative racial stereotypes. Plus, she tells us about her non-profit, 50 States 50 Books, and how you can be a part of giving children more access to diverse and inclusive books. Then they chat about where to even begin with teaching about racism and diversity to children, the right time to start that conversation, and some of the best books to introduce to your kids. Finally, they close with some listener-submitted questions including how to respond to your child’s questions about differences and tips for exposing your children to other diversities.

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Brittany is back in the studio, and this time she’s joined by new mom and star of Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules, Lala Kent. They start by telling us just how long it took Lala to actually watch the show (hint: it was more than a few years), what she wants her daughter to learn from seeing her mom on TV, and exactly what the Vanderpump moms group chat is like. Next, Lala describes what it takes to be the nanny to Lala’s child. Plus, she shares her scariest moment yet as a mother (it happened at Brittany and Jax’s house), how she springs into survival mother mode, and her favorite thing to do with daughter Ocean. Finally, she offers up her number one piece of advice so far as a mother: don’t just take any advice that’s offered, because it may not be right for you.

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Brittany and Aleen are back this week, starting off with a catchup chat about how Aleen turned a vacation that she was anxious about into a really fun experience. Plus, she shares some of her *must-have* travel items, and how the trip turned her into a chiller mom. We also get some updates from Brittany, including what it was like having Noah gone for four days and spending one on one time with Jack and Oliver. Then, they get into a discussion all about feeding, such as introducing solids, and not to mention - Oliver’s choking accidents (not once, but three times!). Finally, they wrap the show with a “Go Ask Your Mom” segment about a listener’s neighbor losing their cool over her crying baby (so who’s in the wrong in this situation?).

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Brittany and Aleen are joined by registered dieticians and co-authors of How To Raise an Intuitive Eater, Amee Severson and Sumner Brooks! They dive right into what intuitive eating is, before getting into - the principles of it and the most important things for parents to understand. They also discuss how to navigate "off-limits food," and language to use (and avoid) when talking about food. Plus, they chat about the right time to introduce intuitive eating to your kids, and whether it's actually "too late" to teach intuitive eating. Finally, they close with the importance of ditching the diet mentality, celebrating bodies of all types, and unlearning toxic thoughts and habits.

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Brittany and Aleen are joined by Kevin Laferriere and Evan Kyle Berger, AKA The Dumb Dads! They jump right into the start of The Dumb Dads brand, including their podcast and TikTok where they discuss all things fatherhood (and having fun along the way ofc). They talk about what it's like being both stay-at-home dads, and how they balanced responsibilities with their partners. Kevin and Evan share what their idea of fatherhood was at first, and also what's been the most surprising thing about it all. Then, it's time for a *special* twist on "No Mom Guilt," - Kevin and Evan dish out on their No Dad Guilts about a near-potty accident and leaning on screen time when you're just too busy.

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This week, Brittany and Aleen are joined by mom-to-be and host of the Big Kid Problems podcast, Sarah Merrill Hall! She’s here to talk all about her pregnancy journey thus far, some of the toughest things she’s experienced, and how her second trimester has been. She also shares what it was like building her brand, Big Kid Problems, the inspo behind it all, and how that eventually led her to start her pregnancy podcast, Bottle Service. Then, they chat about Sarah’s birth plan, her experience with perinatal depression and how she’s been dealing with it. Finally, they close with the “Go Ask Your Mom” email, this one about an early mom who is anxious about making early announcements about her pregnancy

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This week, Aleen and Brittany are joined by sleep coach and best-selling author of 12 Hours of Sleep By 12 Weeks, Suzy Giordano AKA “The Baby Coach.” They start by learning about Suzy’s journey to becoming a sleep coach and she gives us a rundown of the 12x12 method. She shares all the trials and errors she went through when introducing the method and how it actually works. Next, Suzy discusses transitioning from a bassinet to a crib, and her new book Room To Grow. We then read listener questions about all about - what the deal is with dream feeds, legit tips for calming a fussy baby, and Suzy’s thoughts on wake windows. Finally, we end the show with a “Go Ask Your Mom” segment - coming from one sleepy mom to another. 

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Brittany and Aleen are back, this week to chat all about traveling with kids — is it really as scary as we think?! But first, they start off with how Brittany’s recent trip to the Bahamas went, and whether going away with kids actually feels like a vacation. They run through the must-have travel essentials for a baby and toddler, practical tips while flying, and baby gear rentals (yes, those exist). Then they get into listener questions, including going through Covid testing requirements, sleeping schedules, and what to expect with airport security. Finally, they close with a first time listener-submitted “No Mom Guilt,” this one about giving your kids a little bit of extra screen time.

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This week Aleen chats with Betches’ very own Sr. Manager of People and Community, Keisha Toussaint to talk all about her incredible birth story. To start off, Keisha shares just why she chose an at-home birth and how so much of her decision came from the prejudice Black women face during childbirth and postpartum. She also touches on maternal mortality and the lack of quality care Black women receive from the medical community. Keisha then gets into the whole process: finding the right doula and midwife, knowing which types of questions are a *must* ask, and planning for the unexpected. She shares the crazy details of her water birth, and the unbelievably quick delivery of her son Quincy. After hearing this amazing story of Keisha’s birth, they get into some listener questions. They dive into the total cost of birth, whether or not insurance covers home births, and the most helpful pain management tools. The ep comes to a close with a “No Mom Guilt,” all about not feeling bad for taking a break.

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This week Aleen and Brittany are joined by Peloton’s Head Instructor and VP of Fitness Programming, Robin Arzón—are you as excited as we are?! To kick off the convo, Robin explains her decision to be *the first* instructor in Peloton history to go out on maternity leave. They then chat all about boundary setting, learning to just say no (it’s hard, but you can do it), and not feeling guilty for taking a much needed step back. Robin gets into all the details of her return to work and shares some of the expectations and realities of her transition. She also gives some pro-tips on how to get back into moving after having a baby (without losing your mind, ofc). Then it's time for a round of rapid-fire questions and Robin takes you behind the scenes of her Peloton classes. She spills the tea on whether or not she does her own glam, who makes her playlists, and how she decides which workout she's going to do. Then onto "Am I A Mom-ster," all about navigating parenting during COVID (the struggle is real) and dealing with unvaccinated friends and family. The show wraps up with "No Mom Guilt," covering how to prioritize work while letting go of that working-mom guilt—too relatable.

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Aleen and Brittany are back with some big updates (although honestly, every week as a mom is big). Aleen talks about what it was like consulting with a sleep coach, why she had to make that decision and everything she’s learned so far. Brittany’s update is more chaotic — after making the switch from daycare to nanny, her nanny quit! Now she’s deep into the new nanny interview process. They then dive into Brittany’s parenting journey, including the struggle of gentle parenting, how practicing it feels the opposite of gentle, but that she’s also seeing results?! Then on to our fav “Am I A Mom-ster” segment, where Aleen and Brittany are here to help you maneuver your overstepping mother-in-law (won’t she just chill?). The episode comes to a close with Aleen’s “No Mom Guilt,” because every mom can relate to accidentally overspending and that’s okay.

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In this week's episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by IVF, NICU, and surrogacy mom, Ashley Gildin Spitzer. Ashley is here to share all about her bumpy and emotional infertility journey. To start off, Ashley shares her experience with IVF and IUI, eventually making the decision to go through surrogacy, and just how expensive and emotional it can all be. She talks about the moment she realized her first surrogate match was actually not a match, and even taking matters into her own hands to find her own surrogate. Ashley ultimately shares how she ended up with 2 beautiful babies after trying for 4 years, and how her infertility journey led to her to creating on online community called, “Fertility Friends of Friends."

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Aleen and Brittany are back this week, starting off with some updates including Brittany’s decision to hire a nanny for Jack, Aleen introducing solids to Mila, and Mila’s very first giggle. Next, they dive into a discussion all about how their experience has been introducing their dogs to their babies, what they did before their babies’ arrivals, and some of the biggest challenges along the way (including the relatable feeling of dog mom guilt). Plus, Brittany shares some pointers she learned from her session with Dog Meets Baby, and some of the strategies she’s been practicing at home. Then, a listener writes in to “Go Ask Your Mom” about how to teach a dog the difference between their toys and her baby’s toys, and why it’s so important to set those boundaries. Finally, Aleen shares a “No Mom Guilt” about shaking the feeling of judgment for not giving Mila more stimulation.

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Today, Brittany is joined once again by psychiatrist, author, and founder of Gemma, Dr. Laskhmin. Dr. Lakshmin is back to chat all about postpartum mental health, starting off with a recap of what postpartum depression and anxiety are (and just how common they really are). They also discuss the relatable struggle of getting past the guilt of postpartum depression and why it’s time to let go of that that shame. Plus, Dr. Lakshmin shares her thoughts on the fight for paid family leave, and just how much it can actually affect maternal mental health. Then, they get into some listener questions, including breastfeeding while on antidepressants, supporting other moms going through a tough time, and first trimester fears. Finally, Dr. Lakshmin shares some resources for PPD, and why it’s so important to never feel ashamed for speaking up.

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This week, Aleen and Brittany are back, starting off with a catchup chat about Brittany's quarantine with the kids, and Aleen's Covid scare during the holidays. Next, they dive into a discussion all about Aleen's return to work, catching up to speed, and the relatable feeling of just wanting to relax (don't we all?). They get into a brand new segment called "Go Ask Your Mom" about a listener who wants to know the best way to be there for her sister-in-law after giving birth. Then, it's time for another new segment called "Am I a Mom-ster?,” this one about a mom who thought her in-law crossed the line after refusing to give her 6 month old baby back after being asked repeatedly. So who was in the wrong here? To round off this week's show, Brittany shares a No Mom Guilt about losing her temper with Oliver (not once, but twice) and being gentle with herself afterwards.

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This week, Brittany is joined by registered dietician-nutritionist, wellness expert, and founder of Rooted Wellness to chat all about postnatal care and nutrition. They start off with Sarah’s journey to becoming a mom of 2 and how she founded Rooted Wellness, a nutrition counseling practice dedicated to maternal and family health. Sarah shares what her personal postnatal journey was like, the lessons she learned along the way, and offers tips on the best foods to eat postpartum (including foods that reduce the risk of PPA and PPD). Plus, they discuss whether or not vegan diets are actually a good choice for kids, how to overcome picky eaters, and easy and quick recipes for kids. Then, they cover what postnatal care coverage looks, before closing with some practical solutions for postpartum self-care.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Sarah Nicole Landry (aka @thebirdspapaya) to talk about motherhood, body image, and learning to love your body. They first talk about Sarah's jump into the whole world of blogging, her transition from dieting to embracing body positivity, and what that recovery process felt like. They discuss the impact of pregnancy on our bodies and our self-image, how our own body issues can impact our children, and the importance of being vulnerable with our kids. Plus, Sarah shares how she responded to negative comments about her kid's body (and how she unlearn that trauma she also experienced as a kid). Finally, they close with how to create a home where our kids feel supported and practical tips on encouraging positive body talk.

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This week, Brittany hosts behavioral analysts Tess Kaner and Lisa Linden from NY Behavioral Therapy to discuss the intimidating process of dealing with child behavioral issues. They break down the myth that there is a one-size-fit-all approach to dealing with behavior, and why individualized approaches are much more effective at taking your child down the right path. They also discuss what to look out for if you are considering seeking out help, and how to go about that process if you decide to do so. After that, they get into if there really is a right time to start potty training, and why you don’t need to worry about a timeline that doesn’t seem to fit in with what other’s are saying. To learn more about their company, visit NYbehaviortherapy.com and follow them @nybehaviortherapy on Instagram!

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This week, Aleen and Brittany are finally back together for this catchup episode to tell us how their prenatal expectations compare with reality after giving birth. They start with some of their recent challenges of parenting, like figuring out babies’ sleep schedules (and the physical toll it can take on the body). Plus, Aleen tells us how her mental health has been, moving Mila into her own bedroom, and how creating healthy (and guilt free) separations has helped. Then Brittany shares a breastfeeding update and her dramatic visit to the gyno. Finally, it’s time for a a new segment called “Plan vs. Reality,” looking back into the things they thought they’d do, including childcare options, their most-used nursery items, and thoughts on their post-pregnancy bodies.

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Brittany is back this week, this time joined by certified infant feeding tech and founder of The Formula Mom, Mallory Whitmore. They start off with a discussion about why there is such a negative stigma behind formula feeding and if there really is a difference in formula vs. breastfed babies. Next, Mallory offers tips on how parents should go about finding the right formula for their baby and what labels you should ignore and actually don't matter (is European formula really any better?). Then, we get into some listener-submitted questions including generic vs. standard formulas, the best bottles to feed with, and affordable formula options.

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Brittany is joined by financial hype woman, speaker, and host of the Money Please podcast, Berna Anat to talk all about money and budgeting. To kick off, they chat about everything we weren't taught about money growing up, and just how to start the conversation around money with kids. Next, Berna offers some practical tips and some of the most important money lessons when you're first teaching your kids about money. Then, Berna breaks down the best savings accounts for kids (and also explains WTF a 529 plan is). They run through some listener-submitted questions before wrapping with some financial resources for parents to check out. Make sure to follow Berna @heyberna and follow Money Please on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

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This week, Brittany is joined by Rebecca Minkoff, co-founder and designer of the Rebecca Minkoff global fashion brand. To begin, Rebecca shares what it’s like being a mom of three while also running a business at the same time. She tells us how she got into the fashion industry, including some of the most valuable lessons from when she first started out. Next, they discuss how she empowers her kids to work hard, and the moment she felt like she was failing as a parent. Plus, they talk about her experience going into maternity leave (and the relatable feeling of wanting to just check out). Finally, Rebecca offers some tips for moms who are re-entering the workforce after maternity leave and the necessary things to ask for when making the return.

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On this episode, Brittany is joined by reality TV star and entrepreneur, Nicole 'Snooki' Polizzi. To start, they chat and reflect about Snooki's time on Jersey Shore, and why she decided to take some time off for herself. They also chat about Snooki's thoughts on Sissy and Meilani becoming reality TV stars in the future, and being mini-me versions of her and JWoww. Next, they talk all about her brand new wine line, 'Messy Mawma.' Snooki shares how she got into the liquor and wine business, the process behind creating her wines, and how her kids inspired her in the creation of Messy Mawma. Finally, Snooki shares how she finds time to unwind as a busy mom of three and some of the best parts of being a mom (and of course the toughest parts).

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Aleen is back to continue sharing how life has been since the birth of her daughter Mila. First, Aleen talks about the impact of the amount of support she received after last week’s episode. Then she discusses her current experience with postpartum anxiety and how she’s managing to navigate through it all. She talks about her struggles with leaving the house, sleeplessness, and just a general feeling of being down. Brittany also shares her experiences in this difficult period, and how she managed to keep going forward despite these emotions. They end the show on a high note, as they both share some of the most rewarding parts of motherhood.

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It’s been two months since the birth of her baby, Mila, and Aleen is back to share her birth story! They dive right into Aleen’s labor and delivery experience, with details on just how chaotic (and not so easy) it was. Plus, she shares a story about her mom taking charge in the delivery room and the final push (with the help of Rusty’s playlist). Then, Aleen tells us about the postpartum challenges she’s been struggling with, including coming to terms with the struggle of breastfeeding and deciding to start weaning. Finally, Aleen answers a listener question about the biggest surprise during her postpartum journey, adjusting to new-mom life, and having a support system.

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This week. Brittany is joined by pediatrician, best-selling author, and medical correspondent, Dr. Tanya Altmann to chat all about infant gut health. To start, Dr. Tanya shares her background and focus in preventative health, nutrition, and sleep. She discusses signs of newborn gut deficiency in babies, what to ask your pediatrician if you see those signs, and steps parents can take to protect their baby's gut microbiome. They get into some practical nutrition tips, common allergies in babies, and how to choose the right probiotic (and what isn't so important when looking for one). Plus, they chat about how to keep children as healthy as possible going into the flu season and whether or not we should expect to see a rise in other illnesses. They wrap with a discussion all about solids, including when to start. weaning from breastfeeding, and what foods are most appropriate when transitioning.

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It's been two weeks since Brittany has officially returned for maternity leave and this week, she is joined once again by Shira Dreksler for this special welcome back episode. To start, Brittany shares how she's feeling and what's been going on now that she's back to work. They also chat about Brittany's difficulty with breastfeeding, parenting without Noah in the house, and getting into that postpartum slump. Shira offers some advice on what she's learned after a year of returning back to work, the realities of the fourth trimester, and how to ignore the need to bounce back after having a baby. Then, it's time for some listener-submitted questions about separating yourself from work while on maternity leave, how much leave you should take, and taking care of a sick toddler around a newborn. Finally, we end with a No Mom Guilt all about balancing parenting, marriage, and personal time alone.

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Aleen is joined by her sister-in-law & Director of Talent and Community at Betches, Shira Dreksler, to answer all your questions on paid family leave. To start, they discuss what working moms should know about maternity leave, what moms are entitled to, and the right questions to ask about during a job interview. Next, they share their thoughts on how f*cked up paid family in the U.S. really is, and even the stigma with men and paternity leave in the workplace. Then, it’s time for listener questions all about re-entering the workforce after having a baby, including how to separate yourself from work, any other benefits moms should be aware of, and how companies can provide support for parents who are coming back from parental leave.

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This week, Brittany is joined by Laura Chambers, CEO of Willow, and Annie Sartor, Senior Director of Business Partnership at PL+US (Paid Leave for the US) to talk all about paid family leave, why it is so critical, and how Willow is helping to empower moms through their advocacy and product. They start off discussing the upcoming vote in the Senate that will decide the future of paid leave in the US, and how we can all get involved to make sure it is passed. They also get into the steps that Willow is taking in advocating for universal paid family leave and how they are using technology to empower mothers to live free and untethered with their hands-free breast pumps. To learn more about this critical issue, visit paidleave.us and check out onewillow.com for more information on their innovative breast pump.

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This week, Aleen is joined by two-time author and first dad on Betches Moms, Jordan Shapiro. To start, they chat about his story as a dad and stepdad, before diving into his newest book Father Figure: How To Be a Feminist Dad. Jordan shares his reason for writing his book, the meaning behind being a “feminist dad”, and why so many books about parenting are about what it’s like to be a mother. Next, they discuss navigating the world of technology with kids, how technology affects parenting, and how to help kids navigate life online. To close, they talk about redefining fatherhood, steps to becoming a better parent, and how to truly make space for your kids.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Pregnancy Counselor and Clinical Support Specialist, Sami Albert, to talk all about the adoption process for adoptive parents and birth parents. To kick off, Sami shares how she works with birth parents to make sure they are informed throughout the entire process of adoption. They talk about the first steps to take once you know adoption is the right choice for you, the different pathways to adoption, and some of the disqualifying pieces for adoptive parents. Then, they get into some listeners questions, including the costs associated with adoption and why it actually takes such a long time. To end the episode, they chat about some of the stigmas around adoption, and some helpful resources people can look into to learn more about preparing for adoption.

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Brittany is joined by actors Kristen Bell and Jackie Tohn (screaming!) to talk about parenting, the importance of music in a child’s life, and their new animated series Do, Re & Mi. They start by telling us how they created the show, including why they wanted to give children a new way to learn to love music. They also explain how their friendship and time spent with Kristen’s children impacted the show’s creation. Then Brittany asks whether or not Kristen’s own kids appreciate how cool it is to have Anna from Frozen as a mom (hint: they don’t). Finally, they close the show with a conversation about Kristen’s recent TikTok featuring her kids using foul language (and just how funny it is when your kids curse, let’s be honest).

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Aleen is joined by Betches co-founder Sami Sage to talk about her decision to freeze her embryos. They chat about waiting to have kids, fears around parenting and actually being “ready”, and how much our lives really change after starting a family. They also discuss when she started thinking about her fertility options, and the actual costs of embryo freezing. Sami shares more on the process so far, including her first consultation, genetic testing, and ultimately choosing embryo freezing over egg freezing. Then it’s time for some listener DMs, including one from a listener asks how much insurance is actually covering for the whole procedure. Finally, Sami talks about when she’ll know it’s the “right” time to have kids and whether her family was supportive of her decision.

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Today, Aleen and Brittany are joined by parent & child educator and play expert Jennie Monness (aka Mo’Mommies). They start off with a conversation about why Mo’Mommies was created, how Jennie helps educate new parents on play, and the real struggles of being a new mom of two. They chat about the importance of promoting healthy child development, why it really matters, and where parents can start. Plus, they discuss ways to encourage independent play and why you might want to start teaching your kids to play on their own. Finally, they close with some screen-free activities for your kids, including tips to help your child manage frustration during play.

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Aleen and Brittany are back together once again, and with only a few days to go before Aleen’s due date they’re talking all about the third trimester. First, Aleen shares the things she never expected to experience during her third trimester, including some of the biggest challenges along the way. Plus, she explains what it’s like dealing with the overwhelming anxiety of not feeling like herself and taking steps to enjoy the rest of her pregnancy. Finally, it’s time for a No Mom Guilt, where Brittany talks all about overcoming and working through new mom guilt with her as a second-time mom.

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This week, Brittany makes her much-anticipated return to the show with an update on her birth experience what it’s like to become a mother of two (with the arrival of her new baby boy, Jack). To start, Brittany walks us through her second time in labor, with details on just how different it was from the first time around. Plus, she shares a story from the hospital that’s almost too embarrassing to believe. Brittany also tells us about the postpartum challenges she’s faced including breastfeeding, the baby blues, dealing with mastitis, and adjusting to a two-kid family. Finally, it’s time for some listener-submitted questions all about post-pregnancy clothes, the most underrated baby items you need, and newborn photoshoots.

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This week, Brittany and Aleen host Sabia Wade, aka The Black Doula, to talk all about how doulas can impact the birthing process from beginning to end. They start off with some background on how Sabia got involved in her role before diving into all the details of how doulas can help make the birth a breeze. They also get into how doulas can fill in the gaps that the medical system can leave open for expecting mothers, and how they can make sure you’re advocating for yourself through it all. They also cover at what stage of you pregnancy you should hire a doula as well as what the costs of a doula can be. Follow @theblackdoula to learn more about Sabia’s work! 

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Brittany and Aleen are joined by Dominika Knossalla, certified dog trainer and founder of Dog Meets Baby, to talk all about preparing your dog for a newborn baby’s arrival. They begin with a conversation about the most common fears parents have when making the introduction, including some practical tips for a smooth interaction. Then they jump into a discussion on some of the signs to look for if dogs are in distress, how to deal with an overly affectionate dog, and why distancing before the baby arrives is vital. Plus they tell us how to encourage positive associations when your dog and baby are finally around each other. Finally, they close with some additional tips to prepare your dog for your baby, including changing your dog’s routine, and why you should seriously consider a dog trainer.

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On this week’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are joined by prenatal exercise specialist Jemila Medley to talk all about an under-discussed topic: the pelvic floor. To start, Jemila talks about what it’s like being a first time mom, getting into occupational therapy, and how she has helped moms to improve functional performance through exercise. They break down what pelvic floor therapy is, how you can benefit from it, and what to expect at a pelvic floor therapy appointment. She also shares some practical tips for at-home exercises you can do during pregnancy to strengthen your pelvic floor. Finally, they tell us how to identify symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, and at what point you might want to see a specialist.

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This week Aleen and Brittany are joined by Shanicia Boswell, best selling author and founder of Black Moms Blog. They begin with a conversation about Shanicia’s journey, including her time as a stay-at-home mom, navigating through motherhood while homeless, and how she was able to turn her blog into a successful business. Plus, she shares how she started Black Moms Blog to help positively reflect black motherhood. They also chat about how the birth experiences is different for black mothers, along with practical tips to help women learn to put themselves first, before closing the show with ways to introduce diversity to your kids.

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In this week’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by Ryann Kipping, also known as The Prenatal Nutritionist, to talk about why nutrition is one the most important things to a healthy pregnancy. They start by diving into why it is important for women to change their diets before getting pregnant, as well as the foods you should incorporate and avoid during pregnancy. Next, they talk about dietary supplements, why they matter, and tips for choosing the best prenatal vitamins. Finally, it’s time for the listener email, which is all about an expecting mom dealing with constant heartburn that has gotten out of control.

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Aleen is back this week with her sister-in-law & colleague, Shira Dreksler, to chat about being a working mother of two and her own nursing experience. To start, Shira tells us about being pregnant during the height of the pandemic (including how she had to go to the hospital by herself), what it’s really like having your water break, and how parenting changes after having a second child. Next, they dive into a discussion all about nursing, with tips for when you’ll actually need a lactation consultant, whether or not breastfeeding hurts (hint: it does), and why pumping is so important if you choose to breastfeed. Finally, they close things out with a conversation about sleep training and why your feeding strategy is vital to the whole process.

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This week, Aleen sits down with actress Catherine Reitman to chat all about her comedy series Workin’ Moms and what it’s like to be a real-life working mom herself. To kick off, Catherine dives into where she drew her inspiration when creating the show, including some things she learned about herself along the way. She also shares her experience with postpartum depression, taking the first steps to ask for help, and finding a balance transitioning back to work. Plus, they also talk about what happens when maternal instinct just doesn’t kick in and why you don’t need to apologize for it. They run through some listeners questions, including how to find support as busy moms and Catherine’s favorite (but also least favorite) part of being a working mom. Finally, it’s time for a No Mom Guilt from Catherine all about dealing with work-life balance stress and the shame that comes with not being there enough for your kids.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Samantha Jade, master instructor at SoulCycle and soon-to-be mom to share her story through pregnancy and talk about her experience with endometriosis. They start with her journey from being a first-time rider to auditioning to become an instructor, and how she climbed her way up. She shares her experience riding through her pregnancy, and how she knew when it was time to step off the bike. Samantha has also been through a serious back injury, and shares her story of coming back from that obstacle and how her struggles with her body have made her so much more conscious about everything around her. Plus, they talk about how being diagnosed with endometriosis and Hashimoto’s changed her outlook on her own body. Then, it’s time for a No Mom Guilt from Samantha all about setting boundaries for the way that she wants to raise her own baby, and how she’s dealing with other people’s expectation versus her own wants and needs.

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Aleen and Brittany are back and this week, they host wardrobe and soul stylist Jenny Greenstein, Founder of Your Soul Style, to breakdown styling for moms and her personal journey as a mom. They break down how important style is to your personal wellbeing and mood, and how taking the time to can dramatically improve your mindset. Then, Jenny gives a few tips on how to approach clothing and styling from an investment standpoint, and what to keep in mind as your body changes throughout your pregnancy. They also discuss the stigma of caring about the way you look when you’re a mother, and why that way of thinking is misguided. After that, Jenny shares her own pregnancy story and the challenges she faced with first trimester depression, and how she was able to overcome them with time and the support of the people around her. They also get into Jenny’s experience with two mom parenting, and how she had “the talk” with her daughter about how she came to be.

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Brittany and Aleen are back this week to talk about nursery and baby essentials to complete your space before the baby arrives. To start, Brittany checks in about her pregnancy with the baby coming soon and how her nursery is coming along so far. Next, they dive into their nursery must-haves, including essentials for your baby’s changing station and why you might want to consider a glider over a rocking chair. Comfort is key people. Plus, they talk about what to look for when choosing a baby monitor and which features you don’t actually need. Aleen asks Brittany what unexpected nursery items she wishes she’d bought the first around, how to pick right baby bottle, and how much you should expect to pack for in a hospital bag. They close the show with a No Mom Guilt about everyday tasks that become almost impossible to do while pregnant.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Dr. Becky Kennedy, to talk about the all-too-familiar topic of temper tantrums and trying (sometimes unsuccessfully) to manage your kids’ emotions. They start off with an explanation of Dr. Becky’s gentle approach to parenting and how to try it yourself. Next, they share practical tips for being an assertive parent, when being restrictive is too much, and how to build a strong relationship with your child. Then Dr. Becky breaks down the nature of child tantrums, including why they happen, and how to avoid throwing one yourself in the process. They discuss examples of how parents can help kids with emotional self-regulation, then close out the show with a conversation about the nature of forced apologies and what to do when your child just won’t say sorry.

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This week, Brittany and Aleen are back to talk all about body image during pregnancy and postpartum, as well as the emotional and physical changes that come with this new stage of life. They start off by sharing their own experiences of people commenting on their pregnant bodies and feeling judged for it. Plus, they chat about why body comments are actually toxic and harmful for pregnant women. Next, they talk about reality of postpartum body image and the pressure to “bounce back” and quickly lose the baby weight following birth. Lastly, it’s time for No Mom Guilt, where Brittany shares her process of practicing gentle parenting with Oliver after getting a text from his teachers that he was “acting up.”

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In today’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are joined by fertility and fibroid specialist Dr. Tiffany Jones to talk about starting your fertility journey, treatment options, and preparing for pregnancy. They start off with a conversation about why fertility is so hard to talk about and how we can normalize conversations around fertility. Next, they chat about when we should start thinking about our own fertility and how to start planning our reproductive journeys. Then, they discuss the difference between egg freezing and embryo freezing, as well as IUI and IVF treatment, and how long should you be trying before seeking fertility services. Plus, they talk about the early signs of infertility in both women and men and what family planning options for same-sex couples look like. Lastly, Dr. Jones shares a first-of-its-kind fertility treatment that offers a more accessible option to IVF.

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In today’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are back to talk all about maternity clothing, the best options for maternity clothes, and how to feel both comfortable and stylish. They also talk about how to feel good on the inside and outside. To kick off, Brittany shares her experience with buying maternity wear during her first pregnancy and some of her must-have pieces throughout the year. Next, they chat about what types of bras and underwear are most comfortable during pregnancy, as well when to buy nursing bras. Then it’s time for the Dear Betches Moms email, which is about navigating friendships once you have kids, especially with child-free friends. Plus, Aleen and Brittany share their own experiences with how their social lives have shifted since getting pregnant and having kids.

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In today’s episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by Megan Roup, Founder of Sculpt Society to talk about fitness, body image, and looking after yourself both physically and mentally during pregnancy. They start off with a conversation about Megan’s struggles during her pregnancy and why we should normalize conversations around not enjoying pregnancy. Next, they talk about dealing with body changes during pregnancy and how to overcome negative self talk. Then, Megan shares one of her favorite prenatal and postal exercises in her TSS Mama program called 360 breathing and demonstrates how to practice the 360 breath. Lastly, they talk about how to modify your exercise routine for a healthy and safe pregnancy.

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On this week’s episode, Brittany and Aleen are back to talk all about childbirth and delivery. They start with a conversation about Britt’s recent baby-moon and the importance of unplugging from work. Plus, Aleen shares some updates on her upcoming move and how the packing has been going while being pregnant. Next, Britt shares what her first birth experience was like, including the signs of early labor, how long she pushed for, and her close experience to getting a C-section. Then she shares some additional tips for first time moms to prepare for labor and delivery. Finally, they wrap the show with a No Mom Guilt all about experiencing a stronger bond with your baby than your partner.

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This week, Aleen and Brittany and joined by actress Busy Phillips to talk about what motherhood has been like having two kids, and how parenting has changed for her over the past years. They start off with a conversation about Busy’s surprise reunion with her mother after a year of separation due to the pandemic. She also shares what it was like having the sex talk with her child and the moment her 12-year old child, Birdie, came out to her. They discuss the importance of having open conversations with your kids and how to foster a safe space for those conversations to take place. Plus, she shares her thoughts on the internet, online safety, and why we shouldn’t place strict limitations on kids’ social media use. Finally, they wrap the episode by talking about the importance of nurturing your kids' mental health.

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On today’s episode Brittany and Aleen are talking all about choosing between hiring a nanny or finding a daycare. They start with a conversation about experiencing the dreaded pregnancy-congestion, and why it’s so hard to figure out what you can and cannot take to treat it. Then they give us the rundown on how you go about picking a nanny, or searching for the right daycare, should your family circumstances demand it. Plus, they explain exactly what an Au Pair does and whether or not hiring one could be right for you. They also share the pros and cons of having someone living under your roof, and Brittany gives tips on how to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need. Then it’s time for a game called “Mrs. Doubt-hire” all about the things that would make you hire or fire a prospective nanny. Finally, they close the show with a heartfelt No Mom Guilt entry all about what it feels like when your family grows from three people to four people.

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Aleen and Brittany are joined by Emmalee Bierly, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, to talk all about sex with your partner after having kids. They start with a conversation about how you know you’re ready to start having sex after giving birth, not just physically but also emotionally. They talk about bringing the unconscious elements of your relationship into the open and having an honest conversation about how you’re feeling about sex. Emmalee shares some practical techniques for getting back in touch with your body and subtly communicating that you’re in the mood without having to literally schedule sex. They also talk about how to create a space for intimacy in a relationship, with some examples for getting on the same page with your partner, and why couples therapy is valuable even in a healthy relationship. Finally, they close the show with some listener-submitted questions about sex after having kids, and not allowing the baby-making process such a transactional experience.

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Brittany and Aleen start the show with a conversation about limiting your child’s screen time and setting reasonable boundaries without becoming a perfectionist. Aleen tells us what she expects her approach will be to screen time, and Brittany explains how her view on putting an iPad in your kid’s hands has changed over time. Plus, they discuss the urge to always keep the food clean and organic, but why there must be room for exceptions. Then a listener writes in to ask when you know you’re ready to have child number two. They talk about how to assess when you’re emotionally and financially prepared for the family to grow, with tips for planning ahead. Finally, they close things with a No Mom Guilt story about treating yourself to a much needed massage.

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Today’s episode is all about finding the right car seat for your baby, so Brittany and Aleen are joined by none other than “The Car Seat Lady” herself, pediatrician and nationally certified child passenger safety instructor Dr. Alisa Baer. They start with a conversation about what qualifies a car seat as being safe, and how to go about choosing the right type for your baby. At 15:00 Dr. Baer explains the different anchoring and tethering methods available, and how that plays into your decision on which seat to buy. At 25:30 they talk about the difference between rear-facing and forward-facing seats, including when you should transition your child to a convertible seat. Plus, they discuss some of the top brands and how effective they are compared to their competitors. Finally, at 33:00 they close the show with some tips for keeping your children safe in the car (and why that includes buckling yourself safely as well).

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Aleen and Brittany are back and talking about treating yourself to a well-deserved vacation during pregnancy. Aleen tells us what she did on her recent baby-moon, how she kept from overheating, and what it takes to make it through an airport at 20 weeks. Brittany offers an update on moving Oliver to his “big boy bed” and how she managed to complete the process with the help of his ‘loveys’. Then a listener writes in with a Dear Betches Moms email all about introducing a newborn baby to a household full of pets. Is there a trick to keeping your animals from becoming jealous of the baby? Finally, they close the show with a No Mom Guilt story about trying to get your 3-year-old to stop and listen, and the anxiety that comes with watching a kid play near the pool.

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Today, Brittany and Aleen are joined by perinatal psychiatrist Dr. Pooja Lakshmin to talk about anxiety and depression during pregnancy and motherhood. They explain what exactly a perinatal therapist does, how Dr. Lakshmin got into the field, and what she does in her work with moms. They discuss postpartum anxiety and depression, just how common they really are, and what your options may be for treatment. They also explain how normal it is to experience intrusive thoughts once the baby has arrived. Dr. Lakshmin tells us about the “triple threat” of mom guilt, martyr-mode, and perfectionism, and shares some practical tips for dealing with these feelings. Finally, they talk about the pitfalls of maternal gatekeeping, and why it’s important to relinquish at least some control to other caregivers when raising a child.

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Aleen are Brittany are back and start the week with a few updates on how their pregnancies are going. Brittany gets into how she’s monitoring the baby’s movements as she enters her third trimester, and what you can look out for at that stage. Next, Aleen talks about her upcoming anatomy scan as she hits the 20-week mark. Brittany also talks about transitioning her son to his “Big Boy Bed,” when she decided he was ready, and how’s he adapting to the big switch. They play a game of “What The F*ck Did You Say?” where they go over some hilariously ridiculous quotes from our listener’s kids and decide which one they would want to deal with the least. They end the show with another round of “No Mom Guilt” presented by Heineken 0.0, where Aleen talks about the decision to get vaccinated, and how she’s realized more and more the power of filtering out everything that doesn’t help you in your life.

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Today’s episode is all about sleep training your baby, so Aleen and Brittany invite sleep expert Lauren Olson (@sleepandthecity) to share all the secrets for getting your child to sleep soundly. They start with a conversation about why sleep is so important for children (and parents) in early development, especially when it comes to health and temperament. They discuss the various methods for sleep training, why the cry-it-out method may not be right for you, and how napping plays into your sleep plan. Lauren offers some simple tricks for getting your child to fall asleep and what to do when you’re dealing with an active child. Plus, she gives tips for keeping your toddler in their new bed once they’ve left the crib, and why it’s so important to maintain a routine. Finally, they explain the role of sleep cycles (both for adults and children) when it comes to getting good rest.

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This week, Aleen are Brittany are back and start with some personal updates! Aleen tells us about her latest sonogram experience and how relieving it felt to see the baby, and Brittany discusses the results of her glucose test and what she learned from the whole experience. Then, they dive into a Dear Betches Moms email from a listener who is wondering how to tell if she is financially prepared to have a baby. They offer their thoughts on what big expenses to keep in mind as you build a budget, including childcare, diapers, toys, cribs, and more. They also give a few tips on how to save money where you can, and how to stay on top of your finances so that you’re also preparing for the future. Finally, it’s time for the No Mom Guilt story of the week presented by Heineken, featuring Brittany’s story about feeling guilty for caving into her son, and how sometimes even small happenings can linger on your mind for a while when you’re a mom.

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On this episode, Aleen and Brittany are joined by board-certified Ob-Gyn and ABC Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton to talk all about the Covid vaccine and pregnancy. The start off talking about the vaccine itself, what we know about potential risks, and when to get the vaccine if you decide to do so while pregnant. They also talk about what factors to consider when choosing whether to get it, and how to ask the right questions so you make the best decision for yourself. To end the episode, they get into some general pregnancy questions from listeners, including best practices when trying to conceive, prenatal vitamins, and gestational diabetes.

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Aleen and Brittany start things off with updates on how their bodies are faring in their respective stages or pregnancy. Brittany talks about her upcoming Glucose Test and the possibility of having gestational diabetes, including a few symptoms that could point towards that diagnosis. Then they dive into a conversation how your eating habits change during pregnancy, sometimes in unexpected ways. Next, they share a listener-submitted Embarrassing Story Of The Week featuring a hilarious mixup at the hospital between the mother and the grandmother. Finally, it’s time for the No Mom Guilt story of the week presented by Heineken, where Aleen shares her struggles with feeling like she’s not doing enough to prepare herself for the baby, and how to make the mental shift to acknowledge that she’s already doing so much.

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Hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine are back and start the episode with a conversation about where kids learn all that defiant language you certainly never taught them. Next, Aleen shares an Embarrassing Story of the Week all about getting advice for conceiving from her OB-GYN mother. Then they play a game of “What the F*ck Did You Just Say” featuring some boob-related kid quotes. Aleen tells us about finding out she’s having a girl and wonders out loud: how do you even figure out how to parent? This leads Brittany to share an excellent piece of advice for allowing your kid to have “big feelings'' and why that may be the secret to raising happy children. Then a listener writes in to ask whether or not it’s okay to change doctors midway through your pregnancy. Should you search for a new physician if your current one doesn’t feel like the right fit? Finally, Brittany gets vulnerable in a segment called “No Mom Guilt” all about why you need to take it easy on yourself and shake those feelings of judgment and guilt.

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On the first ever episode of Betches Moms, hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine start the show with a conversation about the two of them being pregnant at the same time during a pandemic. Then they’re joined by actress Rachel Bilson to talk about her new podcast “Welcome to the OC Bitches” and what it’s like to raise a six year old as a working actress. They discuss what it’s like for a child to start virtual kindergarten, how she handles co-parenting and whether or not Bilson’s daughter knows just how famous her parents really are. Plus, they talk about the ‘hot grandma shit’ they like to do and Rachel shares a great parenting hack to keep kids busy. Then they play a game of “What the F*ck Did You Just Say” featuring some of the craziest things the Betches Moms followers have heard from their children. They close things out with some embarrassing stories of the week, and Rachel reveals whether or not she’d ever do an OC reunion.

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Betches Moms with hosts Aleen Dreksler and Brittany Levine starts April 5th, 2021! Follow us now on Spotify or subscribe on Apple podcasts to be the first to hear it.

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