The Mom Hour

What would you like to accomplish before your next milestone birthday? Today Meagan and Sarah share our personal “five before fifty” lists, giving ourselves the next few years to check off some aspirations both lofty and silly (think big travel goals, creative dreams, home improvements and outdoor adventures). Whether you’re approaching 30, 40, 50, or just love a good life list, this episode will get you thinking—and maybe even writing your own! HELPFUL LINKS: Midlife Lady Leisure PursuitsAmazon MusicApple PodcastsSpotifyfollow us on SubstackTea Sommolier Program2022 Goals & Intentions (What We Said, How It Went & Where Life Surprised Us)New Year Mantras For Your Motherhood Era: Episode 498 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Time is slippery—especially when you’re standing in midlife, looking both forward and back. Today Meagan and Sarah continue unpacking one of the most elusive and shape-shifting concepts we wrestle with: time. How do we imagine the future, how do we plan for it (tarot cards, anyone?), and how does our relationship to longterm planning and future-casting change in our forties? We explore the common traps we fall into when envisioning what’s next, the lessons that still haven’t quite landed, and how midlife has reshaped our goals, timelines, and even the way we dream. Join us! This is Part 3 of a three-part series about Time running this spring. Check out Part 1: On Balance & Busy-ness and Part 2: Time-Saving, Time-Shifting, Time-Surrendering. HELPFUL LINKS: Jon Acuff7 Habits Of Moms Who Make Time For Reading: Episode 492The Lazy Genius Helps Fix Our Time Management Troubles: Episode 485Time Management For The Season You’re In: Episode 483 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a decade of sharing the ups and downs of motherhood, we're wrapping up The Mom Hour this month—and taking one final episode to update you on the kids who’ve grown up alongside this show. From 12 to 27, our eight kids have been a background-but-constant presence on the podcast, and today we'll share where they are now and how they're each thriving in their own way. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: What’s Great (Lately!) About Our Eight: Episode 470What’s Great (And Less-Great) About Our Eight: Episode 152Motherhood From "The Other Side" A Commencement Address For Parents OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: Visit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As kids grow up, it’s the littlest reminders that catch us off guard—like discovering a pair of toddler socks or realizing nobody needs a kid’s menu. Join Meagan and Sarah as we share some of the small-but-significant signs that time is, as ever, marching on. It’s a conversation full of warmth, nostalgia, and gentle reminders to savor the stages as they come…and go. HELPFUL LINKS: the grief of downsizing when your kids grow upMourning The End Of The Baby-Having Years: Episode 418Growing Families, Grown Kids, And The “Someday Family Dinner Table”: Episode 372 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Honi asks how our friends are showing up for us these days. Laura wonders if we ever get recognized in public (and if it's our faces or our voices that give us away!). Aspiring writer Samm is looking for advice on getting started with writing, Lisa wants to know what we’ll miss most about The Mom Hour, and Erica prompts some reflection on what we’re most proud of as moms. And Ann? She’s eager for the scoop on what’s next—listen to find out! HELPFUL LINKS: The Evolution Of Friendships In Motherhood, Part One: Episode 474The Evolution Of Friendships In Motherhood, Part Two: Episode 478What’s Great (Lately!) About Our Eight: Episode 470Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits: Episode 484Ann Patchett's memoir Truth & Beauty: A FriendshipStephen King's On Writing: A Memoir of the CraftAnne Lamott’s Bird by BirdOTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jennifer wants to hear all our old podcast intros one more time (what a fun trip down memory lane!). Contributor Sarah wonders how Meagan and Sarah’s perspectives on parenting have evolved since episode one. Tricia wonders how to get a kindergartener to open up about hard stuff, while listeners Mel and Lisa each ask how to figure out what’s next in motherhood—and life. Kim wants to know how much she really needs to play with her child—and how to balance being present while modeling healthy phone habits. Plus, we share a quick update on what's next for our amazing contributor team members. Enjoy! HELPFUL LINKS: archivesHow Do You Know What’s Next?: Episode 503Katie GouldnerCatie ParrishChasing The Sparkpodcast recs OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Modern society loves the concept of ‘saving time’ – but at what cost? There’s nothing wrong with streamlining and efficiency, but today Meagan and Sarah push back against the notion that time-saving strategies – and products – unilaterally bring more calm to our days. Instead we look at ways to think about shifting time to our advantage, batching tasks and opting out to free up schedule space, simplifying rather than optimizing, and finding our own peace with our relationship to time. This is Part 2 of a three-part series about Time running this spring. Check out Part 1: On Balance & Busy-ness and come back next month for Part 3. HELPFUL LINKS: The Lazy Genius Helps Fix Our Time Management TroublesTime Management For The Season You’re InHow Do I Make Time For It All?The Life-Changing Magic of Opting Outthis rice cooker OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Some days we’re the “Sure, why not?” mom, and other days we’re the “Because I said so” mom - and often we lean more into one side than the other. Meagan and Sarah unpack what the Yes Mom / No Mom binary really means, the why behind our wiring, how it affects our kids, and how it’s not always so black and white. We look at the balance between freedom and structure, and remind you there are many ways to be yourself and be a great mom at the same time. Enjoy! HELPFUL LINKS: Meagan Schools Sarah on Parenting Teens: Episode 310Nurturing Grandparent-Grandkid Relationships: Episode 390Giving Ourselves Credit & Compassion: Episode 506We Hate Fun: Episode 109 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Meagan wrote a book—and Sarah has lots of questions. In this episode, we dive into Meagan’s journey from concept to publication. From the initial spark of an idea to the challenges of writing, editing, and getting it out into the world, join us for an inside look at the process behind bringing her book to life. Whether you’re a writer, a non-writer who likes to learn how the sausage gets made, or simply want to offer Meagan your support during launch week, we hope you’ll listen! Order Meagan’s book: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s Next HELPFUL LINKS: meaganfrancis.substack.comGretchen Rubin on her “open door” approach to parenting young adultsIs it possible to plan a “slow” book launch?One month until my new book publishes!#amwritingBeth KemptonLife Of A Writer Mom: Episode 406Living A Writerly Life: Episode 454More Than Mom: Writing, Motherhood & Creative PracticeOTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it mean to “launch” a kid into adulthood? How does parenting change when you’re still mom, but they’re no longer children? With Meagan’s new book just a week from launch, we’re diving into five things she’s learned about parenting young adults. Sarah asks the questions, Meagan shares the wisdom—and we both reflect on how the parenting journey keeps evolving. Enjoy! GET THE BOOK: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read – Available For Pre-Order NOW! HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read – Available For Pre-Order NOW!Meagan on SubstackSarah on SubstackOn Balance & Busy-Ness OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Raising creative kids isn’t just about paintbrushes and piano lessons—it’s also about noticing how they think, solve problems, and dream up deas. Both Meagan and Sarah come from creative backgrounds and hope to raise creative kids, but we’ve learned that creativity shows up in unexpected places—from storytelling and party planning to building weird contraptions out of couch cushions. We share what’s worked in our own families, where we’ve had to shift our thinking, and some of the misconceptions we’ve had about what being “creative” really means. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: More Than Mom: Writing, Motherhood & Creative PracticeMidlife Lady Leisure Pursuits: Episode 484More Than Mom: Creative Hobbies (Now … Soonish … Maybe SomedayOTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We’ve heard from so many listeners who say that The Mom Hour helped you through your early years of parenting. Your notes of gratitude got us thinking (and feeling all the feels) about what a uniquely intense and tender season “active mothering” really is—and why it inspires a certain nostalgia when viewed later from a distance. Join us as we share some of your own words as well as memories of our own, reflecting on the pop-cultural, sensory, emotional, and unexpectedly specific things that instantly transport us back. Enjoy! HELPFUL LINKS: The Muscle Memory Of Motherhood: Episode 363Giving Ourselves Credit & Compassion: Episode 506Magical Night Visitors (Elves, Bunnies, Fairies & Jolly Fat Dudes): Episode 96Last Firsts & First Lasts (Milestones We Notice, And A Bunch We Miss): Episode 166 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, we’re talking about busy-ness—that always-running hamster wheel we either can’t get off… or can’t seem to climb onto. Meagan and Sarah each look back on times in our lives when our relationship with productivity felt off—whether we were drowning in to-dos or floating in a weird limbo of not-enough-to-dos. Where are we at now on the busy scale? How do our personalities lend themselves to being busy – or not? And is there even such a thing as the perfect balance? Join us! This is Part 1 of a three-part series about Time running this spring. Check back next month for Part 2! HELPFUL LINKS: The Fall Sarah Quit Everything: Episode 233The Lazy Genius Helps Fix Our Time Management Troubles: Episode 485Time Management For The Season You’re In: Episode 483Time Management & Productivity Tips For Savvy Working Moms: Voices 54 With Whitnee HawthorneProductivity & Time Management Tips For Moms: Episode 169 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From sandbox maintenance and the endless cycle of outgrown kids’ clothes to the rise of sourdough starters and evolving gardening ambitions, today's episode is about how our home management tasks have shifted as our kids have grown. We each share a few “then vs. now” snapshots, offering little insights into what domestic work looks like during different seasons of family life. Enjoy! HELPFUL LINKS: Organizing Kids' Clothes: Seasonal And Hand-Me-Down Storage Made SimpleThe Domestic Revolution by Ruth Goodman Home/Life/Time Management OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey, book lovers! This week, Meagan and Sarah catch up on our latest reading adventures. We share some books we’ve been loving lately, our TBR lists and check in on our library habits. We also discuss how reading habits change when we’re on vacation or just shaking up our routines. Oh, and with Meagan’s book launch on the horizon, we’re giving you a peek into how she’s keeping up with all the new releases and buzz in the book world. So grab a cup of your fav beverage and let’s dive into this bookish catch-up! HELPFUL LINKS: 7 Habits Of Moms Who Make Time For Reading: Episode 492More Than Mom: For The Love Of LibrariesLibby App The New YorkerThe No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency SeriesThe Domestic Revolution: How the Introduction of Coal into Victorian Homes Changed EverythingA Walk Across AmericaHero with a Thousand FacesThe Tea Planter’s WifeSorry I’m Late, I Didn’t Want To Come: One Introvert’s Year of Saying YesWintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult TimesJedidiah JenkinsMother NatureArmchair Expertcurrent relationship with the library The Kettle OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

No April Foolery from us today, but we ARE talking about family culture around jokes and funny stuff. We touch on Sarah’s very strong feelings about pranks and jump scares, the joy of watching our kids’ unique senses of humor evolve as they grow, whether teasing and ribbing fit in our our families’ culture, comedy styles in pop culture that catch on with our teens, and more. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: Speaking Our Kids’ Love Languages (And Knowing Our Own): Episode 296Staying Connected With Tweens, Teens & Beyond: Episode 482 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Living near other families with kids is a blessing and, occasionally, a challenge. In today’s episode of House Rules, Meagan and Sarah share tips from The Mom Hour community—consider this your go-to guide for making those impromptu playdates a little smoother! From setting boundaries, providing snacks, staying safe, and keeping the peace, we've got you covered. Enjoy! HELPFUL LINKS: House Rules For Neighbor PlayHouse Rules For Messy Fun: Episode 468House Rules For Easier Bedtimes: Episode 443House Rules For Tidying Up: Episode 413House Rules For Gifting & Giving: Episode 393House Rules For After School: Episode 380House Rules for Playdates: Episode 340 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we celebrate a decade of The Mom Hour! We asked listeners to tell us the phrases we say all the time – MomHour-isms, if you will – and wow, did you deliver. We own up to our quirks and vocal tics, give backstory to oft-repeated phrases we utter, and share behind-the-scenes details about making and editing the podcast. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: How Do You Know What’s Next?: Episode 503Mom Milestones (By Popular Request!): Episode 257We Hate Fun: Episode 109We Hate Fun! (Okay, Not ALL Fun): Episode 10The Muscle Memory Of Motherhood: Episode 363OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Let’s talk travel habits! How do you settle into a rental property? Do you unpack in a hotel room? Are you a fan of rental cars, or do you rely on ride-sharing apps? These are just a few of the things Meagan and Sarah discuss in today’s episode on traveling without kids and the unique habits that come with it. Join us as we share our personal quirks (and strong feelings) on things like rental cars, tech use while on vacation, our use (or non-use) of navigation apps, and how we make accommodations feel more like home. Enjoy! This is Part 3 of a three-part travel series running this winter! You can listen to Part 1 here, and listen to Part 2 here. HELPFUL LINKS: Family Travel HubTraveling As Business Besties (Meagan & Sarah From Dallas Together!)Getting There Is Half The Fun (Especially When You’re Flying Solo) OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mornings set the tone for the day, so how are we spending ours lately? Today we define – and debate! – a “successful” start to the day, and dig into some of the mythology surrounding morning routines. From quiet time to busy school morning routines, we’ll share how different environments shape our mornings and talk about the little habits that help us feel grounded and ready to take on the day. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: Evening Routines Lately: Episode 507Morning Routines & Morning Makeovers: Episode 222 OTHER HELPFUL LINKS: The Last Parenting Book You’ll Ever Read: How We Let Our Kids Go and Embrace What’s NextVisit our websiteCheck out deals from our partnersFollow us on InstagramJoin our private listener group on FacebookSign up for our newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.