Big Fat Positive: Pregnancy and Parenting (BFP)

Laura reports on her family's rocky journey home from Mexico and the effects it had on her kids, and Shanna talks about how her daughter's adorable Easter egg hunt took an unexpected turn. Also, in the special segment "Throwback," Shanna shares two stories about how her impulsive decisions as a child disrupted her family's vacations. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a long-overdue errand Laura finally checked off her list and a spontaneous project Cece took on that made Shanna's heart sing. Shanna's kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura's kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: • How to keep your kids occupied during a long travel day • Handling sibling jealousy during spring break • Taking kids to birthday parties when they're overtired and dysregulated • Sending your kids to day camp during school breaks • Impulsive childhood decisions • When best-laid vacation plans go wrong • Letting your child take ownership of a project Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: • Johnny Rockets (Restaurant in the Cancun airport) • "Meat tenderizer in the acute treatment of imported fire ant stings" - Article from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1987 • Pinetop, Arizona - Where Shanna's family vacationed • Best Jewelry and Watch Repair, Glendale — Laura's ring resizing recommendation Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: • Ep. 386 - Where Shanna shares the hack of keeping an Oh Shit kit in your car • Ep. 397 - Where Shanna talks about her girls attending "field trip" camp over winter break • Ep. 408 - Where Laura shares a Throwback story about the time her family went on vacation to an all-inclusive Club Med resort in Mexico Connect with Us: • Become a Patreon member to access ad-free episodes, bonus content, live hangouts and more! patreon.com/bfppodcast • Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast • Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. • Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Email us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Throwback," Laura recounts a family trip to Club Med in Mexico when she was 13 that involved hypnosis, trapeze and forbidden love. Also, Shanna faces the consequences of packing too many family plans into one Saturday, and Laura shares the revelation that allowed her to fully enjoy her family's spring-break trip to Mexico. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including late-night tooth trauma and more. Shanna's kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura's kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: • Over-planning your weekend (and paying the price) • Travelling with a selective/picky eater • Vacationing at an all-inclusive resort with kids • Growing up at 13: crushes, trapeze, and the last family trip before everything changed • Dog training: getting the whole family on the same page • Dental health hacks for people who hate flossing Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: • Dreams Aventuras Riviera Maya - The all-inclusive resort Laura and fam stayed at during their vacation in Mexico • Agoutis - the cute critters Laura's family saw during their trip • Waterpik Sonic-Fusion 2.0 toothbrush - The toothbrush Laura uses that gets her a gold star at the dentist Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: • Ep. 281 - Where Laura shares a Throwback story about the time her family found what they thought was a baby osprey while vacationing on the Jersey shore. Connect with Us: • Become a Patreon member to access ad-free episodes, bonus content, live hangouts and more! patreon.com/bfppodcast • Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast • Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. • Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Email us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the brand-new special segment "What's in Your Bag?," Laura and Shanna dig deep to discover the hilarious items that only parents would have lurking at the bottoms of their purses and bags, including a soggy sensation that made Shanna recoil and the sad remains of a once-glorious creation that Laura remembers fondly. Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's progress in his new TK classroom, and Shanna checks in on her family's action-packed weekend in San Diego. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a fancy purchase Laura made just for herself and a dinner experience that Shanna was surprisingly delighted by. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: • Transitioning your child to a new classroom mid-year • Kids' sports: what to expect from Little League at age 7 • Planning low-key family weekend trips in Southern California • What's really at the bottom of a mom's bag • Setting up a home sewing and craft room • Reclaiming pre-kids hobbies as a parent • Credit card points: a secret weapon for personal splurges • Taking your kids to live music at dinner Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: • Savannah Bananas • Museum of Illusions • Margaritaville Hotel • Mission Beach • Belmont Park • Giggles candy • Owala water bottle • Deadpool • Brabantia Ironing Board • Teddy Swims • "As It Was" by Harry Styles Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: • Ep. 406 - Where Shanna talks about Owala water bottles vs. Stanleys • Ep. 404 - Where Laura talks about Sebastian transitioning into the TK classroom at his school Connect with Us: • Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast • Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. • Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Email us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com • Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "What the Hack?," Shanna and Laura share some of their favorite parenting tips and tricks, including ideas for making household laundry easier, making homework time more engaging and more! Also, Shanna has a surprising reaction to her daughter's softball schedule this season, and Laura's son has his first appointment with an Occupational Therapist. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a product that has changed Shanna's life for the better and a musical event that delighted Laura's entire family. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Helium balloons at StaplesOil stain hack on RedditCabinet door and drawer bumpersFluffy key fobiPhone Shortcuts appHow to: Automating a file to play on your iPhoneWheel of NamesCollapsible laundry hampersBare-bones stopwatchOwala water bottleRock and Roll Playground Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 391 Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Big Topic," Shanna and Laura dive into the topic of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They share their personal experiences with ADHD, including learning about the symptoms of the condition, the process of getting an assessment for their children (and themselves), seeking treatment and much more. Also, Laura reports on handling the pressure of a busy work week by outsourcing an unpleasant task, and Shanna talks about a bedtime incident with her 7-year-old that brought up big feelings. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including an intense rock 'n' roll concert and an overly enthusiastic volunteer experience. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Laundry Pop80-HD from Dog ManTaking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide for ParentsDr. Russell A. BarkleyRussell Barkley's YouTube channelRaising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child Is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent, and EnergeticThe ADHD Parenting PodcastRead Across AmericaPenguin ProblemsUnicorn Day Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Bonus: 2023 Wrap Up Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "They Said What?!" Shanna and Laura discuss the funny, outrageous or offensive things people have said to them recently, including a surprisingly sentimental comment about Laura's upcoming travel plans and a shocking outburst in a grocery-store parking lot. Also, Shanna reports on her kids' new chore routine, and Laura talks about her anxiety leading up to her first grader's school performance. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a fun dinner activity for the family and a big school transition. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Kallaloo! A Caribbean TaleStone Soup folk storyTrader Joe'sDisney AdultsSushi rolling matsGrim Grinning Ghosts song from the Haunted Mansion ride Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 381 - Where Shanna introduces the "Cat Bucks" reward system Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!," Shanna and Laura reveal the current parenting dilemmas that have their hair standing on end, including an unexpected sight on Shanna’s school communication app and a travel conundrum that is stressing Laura out. Also, Laura reports on her son’s back-to-back tooth loss that has left him with a double gap, and Shanna checks in on her daughter’s surprising trip to the dentist to get her cavities filled. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a fun kids craft and a trip to Vegas. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Rainbow Loom kitWizard of Oz at the SphereMad Apple Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 402 - Where Laura learns about the Ear Tube Fairy Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the new special segment “Just You Wait,” Laura and Shanna flip the usual fear-mongering script about parenting older kids and share some of the things that get better as children grow up. Also, Shanna gives an update on Cece’s ear-piercing saga, and Laura reports on her 5-year-old's ENT appointment to discuss his ear tubes. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a family board game that turned out to be a huge hit and a delightfully bizarre piece of "junk mail." Shanna’s kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, and resources mentioned in this episode: Digital otoscopeThe Allowance GameLakeshore LearningCoin rollersAlan Wagner on InstagramTrueWagner.com Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 401 - Where Shanna originally takes Cece to get her ear pierced Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying?," Shanna and Laura explore the things that have brought out the waterworks in their little ones recently, including situations in the distant past that seem to have induced an anxiety attack and a jealousy-induced meltdown. Also, Laura is skeptical about her son's newest extracurricular activity, and Shanna is surprised by the incident that leaves her daughter looking "like a pirate." Finally, the moms wrap up with their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a joyous celebration at the park and a volunteer position that actually sounds fun. Shanna’s kids are 10 and 7 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Little League2023 Writers StrikeThe Simpsons Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 271 - Where Laura talks about how the Writers' Strike is affecting her family Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Laura and Shanna celebrate their 400th episode of "Big Fat Positive" with a very special "Checkin' the Inbox" segment, in which they answer listener questions sent in via voice memo! They dive into the topics of baby naming, deciding whether to have a second child, the parenting “rules” they swore they’d never break and more! Also, Shanna recaps Elle’s 10th birthday celebrations, and Laura shares a sweet sibling moment during Sebastian’s 5th birthday trip. Finally, the moms wrap up with their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a party activity that will excite all your guests and an ingenious way to brush up on your foreign-language skills during your kids' bedtime. Shanna’s kids are 10 and 7 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 and 5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Speakpipe - Leave us a voice message!Doc Martens Girls' Sparkly Black BootsIndiana Jones ride at Disneyland"The Ghost Ship That Didn't Carry Us" by Cheryl StrayedClawsome claw machine rentals for events"Ghosts" by Raina TelgemeierFantasmas" by Raina Telgemeier Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 399 - Where Shanna talks about the name Elara JaneEp. 396 - Where Laura surprises Auggie with a birthday trip to Disneyland Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comspeakpipe.com/bfppodcast If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment “Internet Insanity,” Shanna and Laura share the wild and wacky content they've found online recently, including a baby name that has risen to fame for a surprising reason and a mom-group breakup of epic proportions. Also, Laura shares how a Percy Jackson obsession turned into a spontaneous after-school trip with her kids, and Shanna talks about the device that enabled her 9-year-old to arrange her own play date. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including family outings at two Los Angeles landmarks, one beautiful and one bizarre. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Percy Jackson book seriesPercy Jackson series on Disney+Percy Jackson end creditsGriffith ObservatoryTracfone"The 2025 Name of the Year is Elara" by Laura Wattenberg"How a ‘Splash’ Joke Led to the ‘Madison’ Baby Name Boom"Perez Hilton"Breaking Up With My Toxic Mom Group" by Ashley Tisdale French"Matthew Koma (Hilary Duff's husband) getting in on the 'mom group' drama"Huntington GardensOld Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 397 - Where Shanna's kids go to "field trip" campEp. 305 - Where Sebastian fell and got a gash on his nose at the Huntington Gardens Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment “Mom Wins,” Laura and Shanna celebrate their recent parenting achievements, including a clever chemistry-based solution that saved bath time and a surprising moment of jumping into action to help a stranger. Also, Shanna checks in about adjusting to a new chapter now that the kids are back at school and she must figure out what’s next after leaving her job, while Laura shares an unexpected weekend saga that took a sharp turn. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a full agenda “mommy camp” day and a new hobby that’s quickly becoming a kid’s entire personality. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Piccle P street artistChuck E. Cheese Fun PassBath Bomb Potion KitCitric AcidTrails CafeJesse Owens ParkZootopia 2Guitar NinjasFender Squier 3/4-size electric guitarGuitar strings mnemonics Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 397 - Where Laura talks about the bath potions as her BFP for the weekEp. 384 - Where Sebastian wonders why Laura didn't marry Tom York of Radiohead Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment “Stump the Moms,” Laura and Shanna quiz each other about old-school pregnancy tests, the shocking resale value of kids' toys, the cost of giving birth in the 1950s and more! Also, Laura reports on the sweet relief of her kids returning to school after winter break, and Shanna talks about the surprising result of sending her kids to a week-long "field trip" camp. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including a toy that will excite your kids for bath time and a sweet local event that will inspire you to check the activity calendar at your local library. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Bing CrosbySteve & Kate's CampGlendale Central LibrarySkyZone Trampoline Park"How Much Does It Cost to Have a Baby Now?"Ole Kirk's LEGO HouseLEGO Unicef VanStar Wars Death Star LEGO setThe Rabbit Test"10 Wacky Facts About Play-Doh That Will Amaze You"Bath Bomb Potion KitBARK Reading Dogs Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment “What I Googled This Week,” Shanna and Laura reveal the funny and embarrassing things they've asked the internet recently, including a ridiculously juvenile question about astronomy and an out-of-the-ordinary query about a popular theme park. Also, Shanna checks in about a major life transition happening during a chaotic holiday week, and Laura talks about the big surprise she planned for Auggie's 7th birthday. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including an outing that made the kids feel like they’d entered a magical new world and a holiday family tradition. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Disneyland California resident ticket deal“We Don’t Wear Ears” Waterproof stroller coverInsoles for rain bootsMEL Magazine article about UranusThe Open Book bookstoreThe Last BookstoreDescanso Gardens Enchanted Lights Past BFP episodes referenced in this episode: Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Gripe Water," Shanna and Laura share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into the topics of stroller envy and screen time. Also, Laura reports on the people, gifts and baked goods that made her Christmas special, and Shanna talks about managing a hectic, cooped-up holiday week with a sick kid. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including a fun family outing and an indoor activity that unexpectedly became a big hit. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Harry Potter Lego setsFive Nights at Freddy's kids costumeCaptain America kids costumeAir drum sticksAmerica's Test Kitchen gingerbread cookiesPottery wheel for kidsSchool kit from Lakeshore LearningNex PlaygroundChemex carafeCuisanart water kettleHulken bagPickwick Ice CenterRansom Notes game Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Laura and Shanna reveal the unexpected things they've never done before having kids, including a desperate attempt to complete a puzzle in inclement weather and a disturbing doctor's appointment that ended in tears. Also, Shanna talks about her attempts to have a low-key Christmas, and Laura reports on her family's festive week of ice dancing and dreidel spinning. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Disney on IceHow to Play DreidelKanoodle - Brain Teaser PuzzleMuseum of IllusionsBlippi"Fat Bottomed Girls" by Queen"The Book That Almost Rhymed" by Omar Abed Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 379Ep. 358 Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Shanna and Laura give their former selves parenting advice based on what they know now, including wisdom about sentimental baby items and encouragement to advocate for yourself in the early days of new motherhood. Also, Laura manages to get her reluctant kids to go on an urban adventure, and Shanna celebrates her daughter's 7th birthday and travels to Phoenix with her family for a celebration-of-life event. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: Flint Peak Trail"Big Fish" movieThe Baby-Sitter's Club #33: "Claudia and the Great Search""Flashback" (Shanna's short film)Shanna's WebsiteFine Hair SubredditPomeranian Subreddit Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 283Ep. 285Ep. 374Ep. 376 Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned about recently, including an unexpected baby boom on a remote island in the South Pacific and the surprising history of the Tooth Fairy. Also, Shanna shares the details about her daughter's 7th birthday party, and Laura reports on her experience babysitting Shanna's kids. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: 6-7 trendPusheen the cat"Captain Underpants" moviePeople Magazine article: The Real Love Island? Survivor Crew Romances Have Led to 67 Babies...""Survivor" TV showForbes article: Where Did the Tooth Fairy Come From?Developmental leaps in children Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: Ep. 383 Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As 2025 comes to an end, Laura and Shanna reflect on their last 12 months of parenting with honesty, humor and insight in the special segment "Year in Review." As they look back on 2025, they share their biggest laughs, unexpected wins and surprising realizations, including the hilarious thing Laura's kids taught her this year, the shocking incident that sums up the vibe of Shanna's year, their favorite shows of 2025 and more! Also, Laura reports on her family's recent trip to Hawaii, and Shanna talks about how she got her kids involved in Thanksgiving meal prep. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: for Products, links, resources mentioned in this episode: -Pasadena's Celebration of the Young Child -"Your Friend, Nate Bargatze" special on Netflix -Lita the dog on TikTok -Clara Batten on TikTok -Perimenopause -Baader-Meinhof phenomenon (aka Frequency Illusion) -Rainbow Baby -"Five Nights at Freddy's" -"Ordinary" by Alex Warren -"Severance" -"The Chair Company" -"The Carpool Detectives" -Snorkle Bob's -Humuhumunukunukuapua'a fish -Telestrations Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: -Ep. 362 - (Shanna gets a concussion from a soccer ball) -Ep. 381 - (Laura hosts a booth at the Pasadena Celebration of the Young Child) -Ep. 221 - (Shanna and Laura go to a rage room) -Ep. 378 - (Laura adopts her new kitten, Pumpkin) -Ep. 355 - (Shanna tells her daughter about the Leprechaun and Santa) -Ep. 356 - (Where Shanna tells her daughter about being a "Rainbow Baby") Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It’s Christmas week, and Shanna and Laura get festive answering listeners' holiday-themed questions in the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox!" They answer questions about handling the logistics of Santa, managing sibling jealousy during the gift-giving season, whether to do Elf on the Shelf and more! During the check-in, they share their families' plans for the holiday and discuss their gift ideas for their kids, their husbands (and each other!). In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox: Holiday Q&A," Laura and Shanna. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: Products, links, and resources mentioned in this episode: -Tiny Chef -Descanso Gardens Enchanted Forest of Lights -LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow -5 Nights at Freddy's Costume -Harry Potter Legos -Kids Pottery Wheel -Labubu -Menorahs at Target -The Boar's Head Carol -The Alex Theater Past BFP episodes mentioned in this episode: -Ep. 343 - (Where Shanna talks about giving her kids a trampoline for Christmas) Connect with Us InstagramTikTokFacebookFacebook community groupbigfatpositivepodcast.comcontact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com If you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.