Coffee + Crumbs Podcast: Recent Episodes
Katie Blackburn, Jill Atogwe, Ashlee Gadd
The Coffee + Crumbs Podcast is your companion for kitchen cleanups, stroller walks, or the daily carpool hustle. Join hosts Ashlee Gadd, Katie Blackburn, and Jill Atogwe as they chat about the beautiful, holy work of motherhood. We hope you leave this show feeling safe, known, encouraged and loved.
Sometimes, the answer to the question "How are you really doing?" can feel like cement in your mouth. But often, it's an honest answer that unlocks meaningful friendships. Join us today for a conversation with Coffee + Crumbs writer, Cara Stolen—our resident outdoorsy girl—as we discuss backpacking, friendship, and the intersection between the two. We hope this episode inspires you to grab your best gal pals for a hike (or walk!) and let them in on what's really going on. This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast. Cara convinces us to hike with friends; listen to this bonus episode if you're thinking about Traveling with Friends. For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Order You're In Good Company
- Cara on Substack
- Cara's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
For some of us, making friends as kids was challenging. The same can be true now, as adults. But you can turn a sour situation into something downright sweet when you show up as your whole self. Today, we're talking with YIGC contributor Neidy (naydee) Hess who shares about the good, bad, ugly, and beautiful of finding your people. We hope this conversation gives you permission to embrace the awkward, grieve the losses, but also delight in your community. This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast. Neidy says home-cooked meals and debriefing TV shows helps build friendships; listen to this bonus episode to hear more ways to Take Your Friendships Out of the Group Chat. For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Order You're In Good Company
- Neidy on Substack
- Neidy on Instagram
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
- 300 Violin Orchestra
- Let's Talk About Friendship with Laura Tremaine
- The Life Council by Laura Tremaine
Many of us have experienced a significant shift in a friendship that we thought would last a lifetime. It's painful and can be hard to talk about, which is why we have C+C writer Sonya Spillmann on the podcast today to share about the vulnerable essay she wrote for YIGC called "When Friendships Change." You'll hear about the role food played in one specific friendship, and Sonya tells us what she knows now that she didn't know then. This conversation invites you to see your friendships, both past and present, as the gifts they truly are.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We loved hearing Sonya's unfiltered take on past and present friendships; listen to this bonus episode to hear another Unscripted Gab Sesh.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Order You're In Good Company
- Sonya on Substack
- Sonya on Instagram
- Sonya's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Sonya's website
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
In today's episode, we're taking a slight detour from friendship and hospitality to dive into the writing process with our resident "Writing Yoda" — Callie Feyen. How does doubt fuel our writing? How do we keep a posture of curiosity while witnessing to the world? What might happen to our art if we viewed creativity as part of our inheritance? We hope this conversation gives you a peek into the behind-the-scenes writing process of You're In Good Company, and perhaps even inspires you to write a story yourself (no happy ending required).
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Callie's wisdom influences our writing; listen to this bonus episode to hear how else we're Influenced.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Callie's latest book: When We Swung from Church Bells
- Callie on Substack
- Callie on Instagram
- Callie's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Callie's website
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
Food is a love language, and if it's your love language, this episode is for you. Ruth Gyllenhammer, writer and content director for Coffee + Crumbs, joins Ashlee and Katie to talk about getting out of your comfort zone, the gift of being fully present, and what it looks like to feed our families. Whether you're away from home, or looking to start new rhythms around your family table, we hope this episode encourages you to practice hospitality right where you are.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Ruth talks about her travels to Shanghai; listen to this bonus episode to hear how we do Traveling with Friends.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Ruth on Substack
- Ruth on Instagram
- The Artist Date of the Era by Ruth Gyllenhammer
- Ashlee's Instagram post about the Taylor Swift concert in Germany
- The Supper of the Lamb by Robert Farrar Capon
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
Today, in our ongoing You're in Good Company series, Molly Flinkman tells us about the time she invited nine strangers into her home for Thanksgiving. She fully owns what an insane situation it was while also making a compelling case for why it mattered so much. In this episode, you'll hear how Molly came to value this kind of hospitality—why she keeps her eyes open for strangers in need—and she'll also give some smaller scale suggestions about how this can play out in our real lives. In all the stories she tells, Molly invites us to consider the question she continually asks herself: What kind of stranger will you be?
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We love hearing Molly tell stories; listen to this bonus episode to hear more stories from the C+C team, Story Slam.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Molly's monthly newsletter
- Molly on Substack
- Molly on Instagram
- Molly's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
Today, writer Becky Morquecho joins us to chat about the challenges of food restrictions and what they've taught her about hospitality. She shares the hardships of her daughter's medically necessary strict diet but also encourages us with big and little ways friends make them feel included in the midst of barbecues and birthday parties. Whether you or your child is gluten-free, diabetic, has a dairy or nut allergy, or a rare metabolic disorder like Becky's daughter, we hope this episode says "We see you!" and maybe even inspires you to keep an extra jar of pickles in the fridge for someone you love.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Becky encourages us to come alongside friends who can't eat whatever they want; listen to this bonus episode to come alongside friends by Asking Better Questions.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs. Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Becky on Substack
- Becky on Instagram
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
Today we're joined by Adrienne Garrison, a writer, educator, and podcaster, whose life and work explore hospitality as both a creative practice and a form of survival. From a years-long holiday cookie swap that followed her across states, to designing meaningful learning experiences for her children, to podcasting as an act of deep listening, Adrienne invites us to consider what it means to host others with intention. We talk about loneliness, belonging, and the fierce hope that generosity might lead to connection, and how these experiences shape the stories we tell. Whether you love throwing dinner parties or crafting sentences, this conversation reframes hospitality as a brave and deeply creative act. This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
While Adrienne is organizing podcasts and cookie swaps, we're over here trying to get our act together; listen to this bonus episode to see what's working and what's not: Organize My Life, Please.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Adrienne on Substack
- Adrienne's website
- Adrienne's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Worlds Within podcast series
- I Will Wait by Adrienne Garrison
- Exhale Creativity podcast
- Hidden Figures Young Readers' Edition by Margot Lee Shetterly
- Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
- Coffee +Crumbs on Substack
From lessons learned while living overseas to her small town library storytime, today author Kim Knowle-Zeller shares how blessings can bind us together. You'll hear how she started offering and receiving blessings and how it may be easier than you think to create a welcoming culture with your own hospitable words. Kim reminds us that building community takes time but encourages us to keep initiating. We hope this episode inspires you to see the power in gathering and offering words that bless others along the way.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Kim encourages us to invite a friend for coffee while the kids play or start an in-person book club; listen to this bonus episode to see how else we're Taking Friendships Out of the Group Chat.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Pre-order Small Steps by Kim Knowle-Zeller
- The Beauty of Motherhood by Kim Knowle-Zeller and Erin Strybis
- Kim on Substack
- Kim on Instagram
- Kayla Craig
- Kate Bowler
- Every Moment Holy by Douglas Kaine McKelvey
- The last episode of the Risen Motherhood podcast
- Exhale Creativity
- Coffee +Crumbs on Substack
Welcoming others into our lives and our homes can get messy. Food spills, a glass breaks, dinner burns. Even when it all goes according to plan, there are still dishes to wash and tables to clear. But today, we're talking with C+C writer, Sarah Hauser, about how we can expect, and even embrace, the messes. Be warned, though. This episode may end up inspiring you to throw literal confetti in your house. Make sure to have the vacuum cleaner ready.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Sarah inspires us to splurge on planned messes for the sake of hospitality; listen to this bonus episode to find out When We Splurge and When We Save.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- All Who Are Weary by Sarah Hauser
- A Meal With Jesus by Tim Chester
- Sarah's website
- Sarah on Substack
- Sarah on Instagram
- Sarah's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Kaleidoscope Kids
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
When it comes to hospitality, for author, yoga teacher, and C+C writer Melanie Dale, it's a family affair. Join Ashlee and Katie as they talk with Melanie about one of her essays in YIGC, "We'll Be Your Family on Christmas Eve," and get the scoop on her annual Christmas Eve party. From what her parents taught her to what she's passed on to her kids, Melanie shares her tips for leaving a legacy of hospitality. Find out which ingredient in her chili recipe is straight out of a horror movie, her worst dinner party ever (oof, the smell!), and how she pivoted from Christian nonfiction to middle grade paranormal fantasy with her new book, GIRL OF LORE!
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Melanie Dale has written a handful of books; listen to this bonus episode to find out our Favorite Books of 2025.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Show notes:
- Pre-order You're In Good Company
- Pre-order Girl of Lore by Melanie Dale
- Melanie's website
- Melanie on Instagram
- Melanie's books
- Melanie's Coffee + Crumbs essays
- Halloween contest win #1
- Halloween content win #2
- Chelsea's bacon crackers (add red pepper flakes for a little heat!)
- Coffee + Crumbs on Substack
We are thrilled to be back with a brand new podcast series to go along with our brand new Coffee + Crumbs book, You're In Good Company. In upcoming weeks, you'll hear from every writer who contributed to this collection of essays—a true preview of what's inside these pages. First up, Katie shares how making sourdough is a metaphor for letting grief and healing take its time, while Ashlee introduces us to the idea that "friendship" can be a verb; it's something we do with commitment and consistency. We hope this episode (this whole series, really!) encourages you to live out the gift of friendship—right where you are, with the people in front of you.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you'd like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Releasing You're In Good Company is a huge win; listen to this bonus episode to hear more about What Went Right for us last year.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs. Pre-order You're In Good Company.
Today, we’re talking all things foster care with Jessica Mathisen, a foster, adoptive, and bio mom. Jessica sheds light on the enormous need for vulnerable kids to have a safe place to call home, misconceptions about foster care, challenges for foster families, and how churches, neighbors—and essentially everyone—can help in some capacity. Good news: being a Super Christian is not a prerequisite for making a difference. If you’re feeling convicted by this conversation (we sure are), she encourages us to take the next baby step because we’ll never know all the good that God is doing with each “yes” along the way.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Jessica shares about foster care; listen to this episode to hear An Honest Conversation About Adoption.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today, we’re doing things a little differently—our guest is a dad. Author and spoken word poet, Tanner Olson, shares his heart (and humor!) as we chat about his long journey to fatherhood and what God has taught him along the way. Tanner’s words and vulnerability are profound as he reminds us to s l o w d o w n , notice the world around us, and that there’s always hope in the midst of hardship. Oh, and he also tells us what dads actually want for Father’s Day, so don’t miss out.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Tanner shared his POV about fatherhood; listen to this bonus episode to hear POV: You’re a Single Mom.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Whether it's a different job, or another church, or yet another military move, we’ve all been the new girl at some point in our lives. Today, author Lindsay Swoboda—who’s moved seventeen times!—joins us to chat about how we can hold the unknowns of a Life Raft Season loosely, yet intentionally. Lindsay shares her best tips for creating a sense of home, encourages us to sit with our kids in their pain instead of trying to take it away, and challenges us to pursue new friendships, even if it feels awkward. We hope this conversation gives you the confidence to build a life of connection, no matter what city or life situation you land in.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Lindsay shares tips for being the new girl. Listen to this bonus episode to hear our tips on Taking Your Friendships Out of the Group Chat.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
One of our all-time favorite guests and unofficial Mentor Mom of the C+C team, Krista Gilbert, is back to answer alllllll our questions about motherhood. A mom to four grown kids, Krista shares her best advice for marital disagreements (humility is underrated), tailoring parenting to kids’ individual needs (one-on-one time is key), and navigating the conversations we’d rather avoid (like, changing bodies and sex). From sibling relationships to responding to our kids’ choices, Krista graciously reminds us that it always starts with us and our modeling, but it doesn’t end there: our identity is not tied to our kids’ outcomes, and that may be the greatest encouragement of all.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Krista hasn’t been our only mentor, listen to this Ask a Mentor Mom with Ruth Chou Simons.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re joined by author Greta Eskridge, who shines a light on how to approach a dark topic with our kids: pornography. The stats tell us it’s not a matter of if our kids will be exposed to porn, but when. Luckily equipping our kids doesn’t have to be as scary as we think. Greta shares practical language for age-appropriate, hope-filled conversations and makes a strong case for moms to lead the way. We hope this episode gives you the confidence to talk with your kids about porn so they can stay safe in our digital world and also grow into sexually whole adults.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more on how technology is affecting our kids, listen to our bonus episode Kids + Tech (Our Version).
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
One of our all-time favorite guests, Aundi Kolber—author, mother, and therapist—is back, and today she’s encouraging us to take what we need. Aundi sheds light on how and why we end up disembodied, how to reclaim connection with our God-given needs (especially as moms), and how we can play the role of participant in our own healing. Whether you’re struggling to notice what you’re lacking or struggling to prioritize your own care, we adore Aundi’s nudge to approach ourselves and circumstances with tenderness, but also a touch of fierceness that proclaims, “I matter.”
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Aundi helped us tune into our needs. Listen to this bonus episode, How to Ask Better Questions, for some ideas to learn what’s important to others in your life.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From rediscovering the art of thrifting to embracing breathwork, today we’re sharing what’s keeping us grounded in the midst of life’s demands. While Ashlee’s fueling her body with protein smoothies and filling her Little Free Library with hope-filled books, Katie’s got Jackie Hill Perry in her earbuds and Half Baked Harvest meals on her plate. We hope this episode inspires you to find a workspace with loads of natural light (it doesn’t have to be a coffee shop!) and a sliver of time to finally clean out that junk drawer.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Listen to the original What’s Saving My Life Right Now bonus episode. Spoiler: We’re still Rage Cleaning™ for mental health.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Amanda spends two years of her impressionable adolescence under the care of Larry Nassar, former family medicine physician and team doctor of the US women’s national gymnastics team. Having not fully understood that what she experienced was abuse, it’s only later—when Amanda and her husband struggle to conceive—that the details of her painful story come to light. Then, just as the case against Larry begins to hit the media, Amanda becomes pregnant. She steps forward, along with 155 other women, to testify against Nassar in court. Amanda uses her voice for the daughter she’s carrying, and in the process re-discovers her own. Content warning: sexual abuse.
At the close of this series, we want to extend a special thank you to each woman who bravely offered their story to the project. If this series impacted you, encouraged you, or opened your heart or mind in some way, please help us spread the word. We’d love for you to share this series with your friends and family, your colleagues, and even your online circles. If you’ve only got a minute to spare, please leave us a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts, which helps other women find our show.
“Making a Mother” is a production of Coffee + Crumbs.
Executive Producer, Writer: Ashlee Gadd.
Producer, Writer, Host: Julie Vlahon.
Writer: Sonya Spillmann.
Music, Sound Design, Mix Engineer: Scott Vlahon.
Special thanks to WDIV in Detroit for permission to use their reporting on the Nassar case and trial. We also want to thank Stacy Kaiser and Dr. Lauren Bouchard for their expertise. To learn more about RAINN or M-Power or any of the information we shared in today’s episode visit our show notes at coffeeandcrumbs.net/makingamother.
This episode is brought to you by Needed—offering Radically Better Nutrition™. Use CC20 at checkout to get 20% off your first order. This episode is also brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CC10 and get 10% off your first month.
This series is also brought to you by the paid Substack Community of Coffee + Crumbs. To support our work in the future, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com. From all of us at Coffee + Crumbs, thank you for listening to Making a Mother.
Jerrell’s first baby is born six weeks premature, despite an otherwise typical and healthy pregnancy. At her postpartum appointment, she learns that Black women are 60% more likely to give birth prematurely than white women, and that Black maternal and infant mortality rates are more than double those of white women — regardless of socio-economic status or education. Experts weigh in on why these disparities exist and challenge all of us to ask: what are we doing about it?
“Making a Mother” is a production of Coffee + Crumbs.
Executive Producer, Writer: Ashlee Gadd.
Producer, Writer, Host: Julie Vlahon.
Writer: Sonya Spillmann.
Music, Sound Design, Mix Engineer: Scott Vlahon.
Special thanks to Dr. Lauren Bouchard and Cecily Smith. To learn more about Abide Women’s Health, the Cleveland Clinic or any of the information we shared in today’s episode visit our show notes at coffeeandcrumbs.net/makingamother. If this story impacted you, please consider sharing it with a friend and leaving a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts.
This episode is brought to you by Needed—offering Radically Better Nutrition™. Use CC20 at checkout to get 20% off your first order.
Thank you for supporting the brands that helped make this series possible.
From the time she is young, Faith has a desire to foster or adopt, and assumes it will happen after she gets married. But a life-changing conversation with a pastor challenges her to pursue foster care, even though she is a 29-year-old single woman. This one decision sets off a cascade of events that lead her to motherhood, love, and a fresh appreciation for how God’s plan isn’t constrained by our idealized timelines.
“Making a Mother” is a production of Coffee + Crumbs.
Executive Producer, Writer: Ashlee Gadd.
Producer, Writer, Host: Julie Vlahon.
Writer: Sonya Spillmann
Music, Sound Design, Mix Engineer: Scott Vlahon
For more information on today’s episode—including podcast club discussion guides—check out our show notes at coffeeandcrumbs.net/makingamother. If you’d like to support the show, please share this episode with a friend and consider leaving us a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts.
This episode is brought to you by Needed—offering Radically Better Nutrition™. Use CC20 at checkout to get 20% off your first order.
This episode is also brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CC10 and get 10% off your first month.
Thank you for supporting the brands that helped make this series possible.
When Kate receives the call about a newborn boy in need of foster care and a forever home, her heart is ready to open wide. Assured that the baby’s mother is unlikely to regain custody, she dreams of a future with this child. Meanwhile, Cindy begins to see glimmers of hope amidst all her struggles. Fueled by faith and a determination to turn her life around, she begins the hard work of creating a stable home. Through time and a mutual love for the same baby boy, Kate and Cindy form an unlikely friendship. Together, they navigate the complexities of love, sacrifice, and what it truly means to put the best interests first for the child they both cherish.
“Making a Mother” is a production of Coffee + Crumbs.
Executive Producer, Writer: Ashlee Gadd.
Producer, Writer, Host: Julie Vlahon.
Music, Sound Design, Mix Engineer: Scott Vlahon
Special thanks to Amanda Morales. To learn more about Serenity Foster and Adoption or other information shared in today’s episode visit our show notes at coffeeandcrumbs.net/makingamother. If this story impacted you, please consider sharing it with a friend and leaving a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts.
This episode is brought to you by Needed—offering Radically Better Nutrition™. Use CC20 at checkout to get 20% off your first order.
Thank you for supporting the brands that helped make this series possible.
After struggling with infertility, IVF and multiple losses, Kate and her paraplegic husband choose to pursue adoption through the foster care system. Meanwhile, Cindy—battling homelessness and addiction—gives birth to her sixth child, a boy, who is immediately removed from her care. In the next episode, we learn how these two women’s stories collide and intertwine in the most unexpected ways. Content warning: sexual assault and pregnancy loss.
“Making a Mother” is a production of Coffee + Crumbs.
Executive Producer, Writer: Ashlee Gadd.
Producer, Writer, Host: Julie Vlahon.
Music, Sound Design, Mix Engineer: Scott Vlahon
For more information on today’s episode—including podcast club discussion guides—check out our show notes at coffeeandcrumbs.net/makingamother. If you’d like to support the show, please share this episode with a friend and consider leaving us a 5-star review wherever you listen to podcasts.
This episode is brought to you by Needed—offering Radically Better Nutrition™. Use CC20 at checkout to get 20% off your first order.
This episode is also brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/CC10 and get 10% off your first month.
Thank you for supporting the brands that helped make this series possible.
Making a Mother is a collection of raw, honest stories about some of the complex circumstances and unthinkable challenges women face in the pursuit of motherhood. These stories speak to the physical scars left on our bodies, as well as the emotional scars left on our hearts. Featuring universal themes of loss and redemption, broken dreams and resilience, deep heartache and unwavering love—each episode showcases one woman’s unique story of courage, hope, and tenacity.
Making a Mother will be released in January of 2025. If getting a peek into these stories moves you the way it moves us, we’d love for you to be part of our Making a Mother podcast launch team.
From deserted baby books to the tens of thousands of photos sitting on our phones, it’s easy to feel perpetually behind in memory keeping. Today, as we talk about the challenges of commemorating all the milestones, we also share our imperfect wins and how our approach has drastically changed since becoming first-time moms. Katie has a revelation about redefining what is actually worth remembering, while Ashlee shares her desire to capture the “essence” of her kids instead of data. We’ve come to the conclusion that a) we need to lower our expectations, and b) the chaotic, silly, and in-between moments are the ones that actually make up our lives. We hope this episode inspires you to keep doing your best—via quick notes jotted in a journal or by leaving the camera on the counter—to make those everyday memories the ones you keep.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Listen to this bonus episode to see what else is saving our lives, besides taking the pressure off of memory keeping.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today, we’re taking a look at hospitality with a twist(!) and sharing intentional creative gatherings we’ve either hosted or been invited to. Ashlee raves about a good ol’ fashioned book club (surprise, surprise), show-and-tell parties, and gives more gold stars and hearts for Galentine’s Day, while Katie loves commemorating the change of seasons—think fall soup competitions and end-of-summer backyard movies—and also makes a point to honor special dates like friendaverseries in unique-to-you ways. We hope this episode inspires you to host your own creative get-together. And hey, if you only take one thing from this episode, let it be this: any party where you can wear pajamas is a good party.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join us (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We’ll be sure to celebrate this festive time of year with a creative gathering. Listen to this bonus episode to hear our Very Strong Opinions about other holiday happenings.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re talking with a board certified dermatologist, Dr. Cameron Chesnut, about how aging affects our skin. Dr. Chesnut gives us holistic insight on our most potent anti-aging defenses (exercise! sleep! nutrition!) and gives us the sought-after scoop on which products actually do make a difference (collagen! retinols! Vitamin C!). He also weighs in on the great sunscreen debate, gives the pros and cons of Botox, and takes our rapid-fire “worth it, or not?” quiz. Whether you’re planning to age naturally or maximize modern technology to erase your wrinkles, we hope this conversation brings clarity to some of the most common skin care questions.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We wish more people knew all the good stuff Dr. Chesnut shared about taking care of our skin. Listen to this bonus episode to see what else we wish more people knew about.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Just in time for the most divisive political week of the year, special guests Elizabeth and Chris McKinney—authors of Neighborhoods Reimagined—are here today to share the importance of finding common ground with those living near us. How do we go from pulling into the garage and shutting it behind us to actually befriending our neighbors? Using the Beatitudes as a launching point, the McKinneys offer encouragement and practical tips (simply wave! remember names! start a Facebook page! invite one or two families to gather with you!) to create neighborhood flourishing.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
The McKinneys are helping us make the most of our neighborhoods. Listen to Money Saving Hacks to see how we’re making the most of our paychecks.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today, our girl Jill Atogwe is back (!) to chat about her new children’s book: Left Out — a rhyming reminder that while God didn't give everyone the same bodies or abilities, everything God left out is something He can use for His glory. From pool party insecurities and complicated health issues to feeling “left behind” in certain stages of life, we confess that trusting God’s limits and timing is not always easy—even though we know it’s always for our good. We hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone, and also encourages you to be on the lookout for other women who might be feeling left out.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
It’s easy to feel left out of all the commitments for kids’ activities these days. Listen to this bonus episode to see how we do extracurriculars without the guilt.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
We’re kicking off Season 10 by asking a mentor mom we adore and admire—Ruth Chou Simons—all the things about motherhood. A mom of six boys, Ruth shares her best strategy for navigating sibling arguments, how to cultivate life-long friendships with your kids, and openly answers the mother lode question: what’s your biggest regret in parenting? From small practical tips to big picture hope, this conversation ends with an encouraging line we’re still thinking about.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Ruth shared about all seasons of motherhood. But if you’re interested in hearing about how autumn is going for us, listen to this bonus episode: The Great Fall Reset.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
We’ve covered a lot of ground this season, so today—as a grand finale before we break for sabbatical—we’re doing a quick refresher on our favorite episodes. As we rehash what stuck with us—like asking better questions, gathering around the table with our families, and how technology is affecting our kids—we also give a quick update on some previously mentioned intentions (gotta love public accountability!). If you’re looking for some fun life-savers before the end of summer, Ashlee shares her go-to Costco “English Muffin Situation,” and Katie raves about the decaf cold brew she’s drinking on tap. If you missed any of the episodes mentioned, there’s plenty of time to play catchup over the summer while you try to remove sand from your kids’ swimsuits.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. We’d love for you to join us! Our yearly subscriptions are on sale through July 31st. You can support us for a whole year for around $25.
For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Listen to one of our favorite episodes from the season: What’s Saving My Life Right Now.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re going back—waaay back—and reliving the nostalgic moments, foods, songs, and smells of our younger years. Katie reminisces about the fresh scent of dewy grass on the soccer field and her Nona’s simmering spaghetti, while Ashlee shares about her childhood days doused in chlorine and the love language of her youth: mixed CDs, featuring Dashboard and Death Cab. Of course, we couldn’t chat about adolescence in the ‘90s without taking an intoxicating stroll through Bath & Body Works and remembering the anticipation of TGIF gracing our televisions. We hope this episode inspires you to crank up that old school jam and take a trip of your own down memory lane.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
You just heard what influenced our childhoods and adolescent years, listen to this bonus episode to see what’s influencing us now.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Open those library accounts and Amazon carts, because today we’re sharing our latest favorite books, just in time for summer reading. We cover everything from non-fiction to novels, with a little bit of mystery, research, and personal essays sprinkled in between. And of course, Anne Lamott’s most recent work is included (surprise, surprise). Whether you listen on Audible, read on your Kindle, or like to hold a good ol’ fashioned paperback in your hands (it all counts!), we hope these stories inspire and entertain you while you sip refreshing bubbly water and lounge in the perfect chair.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more stories—this time written by the Coffee + Crumbs team—listen to this bonus episode: Story Slam.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Get the tissue box out, because today we’re feeling ALL THE FEELS as we talk about launching kids into the world. Katie chats with C+C’s mentor mom Krista Gilbert and C+C writer Sonya Spillmann, both of whom hate to admit the adage is true: the days are long but the years are short. You’ll hear how these seasoned moms are leaning into the highs and lows of a long season of lasts, how they’re marking this special time with tailored celebrations, and how they’re caring for themselves along the way (spoiler alert: Sonya’s answer involves horseback riding!). Whether your baby is finishing kindergarten or heading to college in the fall, we hope this episode encourages you to embrace whatever transitional season of motherhood you’re in.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Happy summer! From rhythm charts to chasing down indoor activities strictly for the air conditioning, don’t miss this bonus episode about our favorite tips and tricks for surviving the summer months.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Forget the bounce houses and goody bags, today we’re talking about OUR birthdays. From the simple gift of heartfelt cards to how we really feel about surprise parties, today we’re diving into the art of celebrating. You’ll also hear why Ashlee’s recent birthday was a smashing success (spoiler alert: clear communication is key!), and why Katie is fully embracing a “go big or go home” mentality as she plans for her 40th next year. We hope this episode encourages you to commemorate your friends’ birthdays, daydream a bit about your own, and get all those delightful plans on the calendar.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We love celebrating our birthdays, but see what Rhythms + Routines Are Currently Working For Us in our everyday lives, too.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Friends, grab your notepad and pen before you hit play on this one. Licensed professional counselor, renowned author, and co-host of the Raising Boys and Girls podcast Sissy Goff (!) is with us today—and you’re going to want to write down everything she says. Sissy is both a beacon of light and a wealth of tangible advice. We chat about fostering deep connections with our kids, guiding children toward self-confidence, and even some simple steps to change the trajectory of our families if we need a restart on the path toward healing. Sissy’s encouragement is equal parts practical and profound, and she saves her best piece of advice for last. We hope this conversation gives you reassurance and hope for parenting the exact kid(s) God knew you needed.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
We wish more people knew about Sissy Goff! We Wish More People Knew About This bonus episode, too! For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
How do we guide our kids as they grow up in a world where the internet is infused in practically everything they touch? Today, renowned researcher Dr. Jean Twenge joins us for an eye-opening conversation about how smartphones are affecting kids—and also us. We chat about the link between social media and depression, how boys and girls are influenced differently, and how screen time affects younger children. While this topic can often feel overwhelming and/or doomsday-esque, Dr. Twenge offers us a good mix of tangible suggestions, practical tips, and the much-needed reminder that we need to model healthy relationships with our own smartphones first. Whether you’re already navigating the phone situation with your older teens, or rocking babies and not thinking about any of this yet, we hope this episode informs and encourages you as you continue making decisions around technology in your home.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Speaking of bonus episodes—join us next week in Substack for Kids & Technology (Our Version), where Ashlee and Katie break down their biggest takeaways from this episode, and share more of their personal experiences navigating technology-related decisions with their kids.
Need to set up more healthy habits for yourself and your family? Check out our bonus episode, Rhythms + Routines Working For Us.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Does getting your entire family around the table feel impossible at times? Between long commutes and conflicting sports schedules, nursing babies and pure exhaustion, there are plenty of reasons why we struggle to get around the table—even though we know it matters. According to Katie’s stellar research and our own at-home attempts, eating together can foster connection, protect mental health, reduce stress, and make room for intentional conversations. This episode is certainly not a how-to on proper meals and table manners (if you only knew!), but rather a new-ish practice in our homes we hope you can pull up a seat for. Remember, it doesn’t matter what shade of beige you’re feeding your family—quesadillas and Dino Nuggets count—as long as you’re serving it with a side of grace.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
Need recipe ideas for family dinner? We’ve got you covered.
Need better talking points around the table? Check out our bonus episode, How To Ask Better Questions.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Tap, tap. Is this thing on? We’re officially back after a looooong (unplanned) break, which is why we’re kicking this episode off with an official State of the Podcast address. Thank you for your grace and patience with us! Today we’re diving into the annoyances that don’t bother us (as much) as they once did. You’ll hear how Ashlee’s no longer rattled by crying babies, how Katie’s proudly sporting tank tops (get it, girl!), and how Jill is learning to let go of what others think of her. Whether you’re someone who’s easily irked—like two-thirds of us—or you stroll through life unruffled, we hope this conversion encourages you to feel less flustered by, or maybe even fully free of, something that’s been getting under your skin.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party (and get bonus episodes!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For a more in-depth conversation about what’s been happening behind the scenes of the podcast, we share more in this bonus episode.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From friendship gestures to body confidence to learning how to rest, in this episode we share a few small acts—done by us and others—that have left a big mark. Ashlee acknowledges the gift of putting down forks and being fully present, Katie gives us the lowdown on the five-minute phone call, and Jill shares her conviction to finally put on the swimsuit and jump in the lake. We hope this episode encourages you to take a quick inventory of the little things that are actually big things in your own life, too!
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Is there anything better than reading a good book over summer vacation? Today, we’re sharing our latest favorites—from easy-breezy reads to life-changing memoirs. Whether you gravitate toward practical non-fiction, or prefer the poetry of a well-written novel, we’ve got you covered. We hope these recs inspire you to head to the library (or fill up that ever-growing Amazon cart) ASAP in search of stories that move you. Happy summer. Happy reading.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re talking about the important–and sometimes misrepresented–topic of adoption. Katie chats with Becky (an adoptive mom) and Jamie (an adoptee) about the complexities and layers of this calling that most of the world never sees.
Becky shares the steep learning curve of being an adoptive parent, but also the undeniable gifts and joys God has shown her along the way. Jamie speaks honestly about the grief she’s walked through, sheds light on some common misconceptions about adoption, and moves us deeply when she talks about embracing her belovedness. Although adoption plays a different role in each of these women’s lives, both have come to the same conclusion: God’s grace is abundant, and He is in the business of making things new.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From soccer mom acquaintances to soul sisters, today we’re talking about different kinds of friendships and all things friendship with author and podcaster, Laura Tremaine. We chat about making friends a priority, believing the best in each other, and the less fun (but necessary!) stuff like navigating DTRs, friendship reckonings, and even break-ups. Plus, Laura shares a few tips for meeting new friends on the internet. (Did you know your C+C hosts met each other online!?) We hope this conversation inspires you to take a few minutes to pursue and appreciate the beautiful friendships in your own life.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From the nitty gritty logistics to the right heart posture, today we’re talking all things hospitality. Sparkling floors and perfectly fluffed pillows: optional. Inviting people into our homes, as is, for real connection and real conversation: essential. Whether you enjoy cooking a beautiful three-course meal, or you’d rather serve store-bought cookies on a paper plate, we hope this episode encourages you to welcome old and new friends—and maybe that neighbor you keep meaning to talk to—into your life, mess and all. Plus, Katie gives a very convincing argument on why sheet pan nachos are the perfect food to serve any crowd.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
We vacuum crumbs only to have little hands drop more on the floor, and we try to figure out what’s for dinner (again!). At times, the monotony of being a mom can leave us wondering: does this even matter? Today, Jill and Katie talk with Coffee + Crumbs writer and author of All Who Are Weary, Sarah Hauser, who reminds us that although so much of motherhood goes unseen, God notices ordinary faithfulness and can use the most mundane moments for his glory. If you’re feeling weary, we hope this conversation refreshes your soul and reminds you that you’re seen, you’re deeply loved, and your work matters.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
After a loooong winter hiatus, we’re back just in time to celebrate the launch of Ashlee’s book, Create Anyway, which is now officially out in the wild (!). From infusing art into the most mundane tasks to reframing creativity as a posture, today we’re chatting about how creativity has changed us (and our mothering!) for the better. Plus, Katie and Ashlee get a little teary-eyed talking about photography. We hope this episode reminds you that creativity is valuable and worth carving out space for—not in spite of motherhood, but because of motherhood.
In other news at Coffee + Crumbs, our Spring Collection is here! Head over to coffeeandcrumbs.net/spring-collection to check it out.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Substack community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $3/month, head to coffeeandcrumbs.substack.com to join the party. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
In our last episode of 2022, please queue up the dramatic music and prep the stage for an imaginary awards ceremony celebrating the best moments, products, and people that have brightened our year. From the natural deodorant that doesn’t leave Jill smelling like greek salad (lol) to the bike shorts that made Katie finally realize she’s not as insecure as she used to be—most of these awards are silly, but some of them are meaningful, too. We hope this lighthearted conversation inspires you to create your own Best of 2022 list for the year!
Be sure to listen to the end for a few announcements about some exciting new changes coming to Coffee + Crumbs in 2023. For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
What is it like to be sober in a society that glamorizes and makes light of drinking so often, especially in correlation with motherhood? Today we’re chatting with Dana Bowman—a mother in recovery—who shares how she once found validation in “Wine Mom” culture, before hitting rock bottom in 2014. Through the honest lens of her own experience, Dana offers some alternative ways we can approach conversations, hospitality, and even social media posts more empathetically, to support those struggling with alcohol use.
If you think you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol use, we hope this episode meets you with grace and encourages you to take the next right step toward health and healing.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From five-dollar simple pleasures to the splurges that were totally worth it, today we’re sharing a few of our favorite things. While Jill teaches us how to level up our at-home spa game (hello, eucalyptus shower spray!), Katie is here to convince us that mushroom coffee is definitely worth trying. Plus, Ashlee’s undying love for the weighted blanket continues, per her confession of hauling all fifteen pounds of it when she travels. Whatever you fill your cart with this week, we hope you have a cozy and happy Thanksgiving! This episode is not sponsored by Aquaphor (or anyone for that matter), but it probably could have been.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re talking with Aundi Kolber—a mother, professional counselor, and author—about motherhood and trauma. For many of us, trauma is a word we have reserved for people who have gone through life-altering, dangerous, or abusive experiences, and we have never given attention to the “little t traumas” that add up over a lifetime. No matter where you are, or what you’ve survived, Aundi compassionately walks us through this important conversation on honoring your story, learning how to be a mother even if you didn’t have a great example, and taking care of yourself so you can, in turn, take care of others. You’ll also learn a few ways to parent with empathy, so you can guide your children through their own pain. Whether you’ve endured a devastating circumstance, or many months of overwhelm, we hope this episode encourages you to make space for healing.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
In this honest and vulnerable episode, Katie talks with Sonya, Melanie, and Julie, three Coffee + Crumbs team members who were all diagnosed with breast cancer between 2020 and 2022. You’ll hear how all of these women felt or discovered something abnormal on their own and advocated for themselves to follow up on their intuition. You’ll listen in on the emotions that accompanied the agony of waiting for test results. They’ll let us in on how they shared the news with their kids. And mostly, you’ll hear from each of these women how cancer has forever changed them.
This episode takes us up close to women who have had a life-altering diagnosis, and our hope is that by listening, we can all learn empathy, compassion, or – if this diagnosis is yours – a way to walk forward with both courage and grace for yourself.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
In this honest and vulnerable episode, Katie talks with Sonya, Melanie, and Julie, three Coffee + Crumbs team members who were all diagnosed with breast cancer between 2020 and 2022. You’ll hear how all of these women felt or discovered something abnormal on their own and advocated for themselves to follow up on their intuition. You’ll listen in on the emotions that accompanied the agony of waiting for test results. They’ll let us in on how they shared the news with their kids. And mostly, you’ll hear from each of these women how cancer has forever changed them.
This episode takes us up close to women who have had a life-altering diagnosis, and our hope is that by listening, we can all learn empathy, compassion, or – if this diagnosis is yours – a way to walk forward with both courage and grace for yourself.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Do you ever feel like you spend too much time on your phone? Today we’re chatting with author Hannah Brencher about her 1,000 Unplugged Hours Challenge and how her creativity, marriage, and mothering have flourished since she’s started putting down her phone more often. Unplugging isn’t always easy (no more scrolling during date night arguments!), but as Hannah gently reminds us, there’s plenty of life to enjoy, even when we’re unavailable to the rest of the world. Whether you print Hannah’s tracker sheet, or simply take a quick inventory of your own habits, we hope this conversation encourages you to reclaim more of the beautiful life in front of you.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re diving into the nuance of technology—acknowledging the good parts (access to information! efficiency! staying connected!) and the hard parts (overstimulation! addiction! lack of boundaries!). Plus, we take a sweet stroll down memory lane into some 90’s nostalgia. Whether you’re a tech guru or a digital minimalist, we hope this conversation encourages you as you continue navigating how to use the Internet wisely in 2022.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today we’re diving into the nuance of technology—acknowledging the good parts (access to information! efficiency! staying connected!) and the hard parts (overstimulation! addiction! lack of boundaries!). Plus, we take a sweet stroll down memory lane into some 90’s nostalgia. Whether you’re a tech guru or a digital minimalist, we hope this conversation encourages you as you continue navigating how to use the Internet wisely in 2022.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
It’s the last episode of the season, and today we’re chatting about what makes a Fun Mom™. Confession: two out of three of us struggle with this, but we’re tapping into our younger selves and discovering what makes us feel light and free. Everything from riding scooters with our kids, to simply creating spaces that empower them to find the magic themselves. Whether you’re the mom dancing around the house wearing a feather boa or the mom simply orchestrating opportunities for delight behind the scenes, we hope this episode helps you embrace whatever type of unique fun YOU bring to your family. After all, fun is the opposite of frivolous—it’s rooted in joy, and we could all use an extra dose of that.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Today’s episode is a bit more vulnerable than our regularly scheduled programming. We’re sharing a few honest stories about moments we wish we could take back, change, or at the very least, do over. While we don’t want to live in a perpetual state of should’ve, could’ve, would’ve—these moments have refined us and taught us something, which is why we’re sharing them with you today.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For show notes, go to coffeeandcrumbs.net/podcast.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Disclaimer: You may fill up your Amazon cart by the end of this episode (we did). Today, we’re talking about our favorite books of 2022 (so far) and what we’re excited to read with our feet up in lounge chairs this summer. From novels, to classics, to non-fiction books that challenge us to live more peaceful and joyful lives, we’re covering all sorts of categories—but we seem to be finding our groove in food memoirs?! Here’s to stories that shape and change us in the best ways. Can’t wait to hear what you’ve been reading, too.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!).
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
With summer around the corner, today we’re sharing our best tips and tricks for traveling with kids. From packing an extra pacifier (in a different suitcase!) to always, always, always packing plastic bags—these travel hacks are, of course, inspired by personal experience. We also share our favorite mantras, lessons we learned the hard way, and the travel MVPs we’ve added to our bags of tricks over the years. Plus, you’ll hear Ashlee and Katie gasp in disbelief at Jill’s gross-but-heartwarming story about something a stranger did for her at an airport.
This episode is sponsored by our favorite travel MVP of all time: SNACKS. (Just kidding. We have no sponsors. This episode is brought to you by our Patrons. As always.)
Whether you’re heading out for a long weekend or an international adventure this summer, we hope you have a memorable time! Don’t forget: just say no to supersize Gatorade.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
We’re honored to have Shekea Moreno on the show today, shining some light on the holy work of praying for our kids. We chat about why prayer is so important in the first place, some ideas for what to pray about (besides the one we all know a little too well: our kids’ obedience 😉), and maybe most importantly, the reminder that prayer is what tethers us to God’s presence, and that’s what we need most in motherhood. This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!). For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
From less-than-perfect dental hygiene to hoarding half a dozen beverages on the nightstand, today we’re dishing about the little quirks that make us who we are, inspired by the “I Can’t Be The Only One” chapter of Amy Krause Rosenthal’s Textbook. Join us for a number of (mostly shallow but occasionally deep) confessions, including but not limited to: throw up foods, the sheer satisfaction of carrying groceries in from the car in a single trip, and our complicated feelings around Botox and TikTok. This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!).
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
Life can be, well, a lot. We all know we need to take care of ourselves, but sometimes we get stuck in toxic rhythms, and need a little help from our friends to turn things around. From practical habits to lessons we’ve learned the hard way—today we’re having an honest conversation about the importance of nurturing our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Reminder: we aren’t experts! We’re simply three friends sharing notes as we go and hoping this episode encourages you as you fill your own cup this week.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!).
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
After a winter hiatus, we’re easing back into our show today with a lighthearted conversation about some of our favorite “game changers.” From meal prep and cordless vacuum cleaners, to Costco delivery and professional counseling—today we’re sharing a handful of hacks, products, and strategies that have made a difference in our daily lives. Plus, Katie and Ashlee get into a lively debate about cold exposure, and Jill explains why we’re all obsessed with Voxer.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host discussions after every episode, offer bonus content, and more!).
In light of recent events unfolding in Katie's life, we decided not to air our last episode of 2021. Thank you for your grace and patience as we take some time to pause, pray, and regroup. We'll be back in your earbuds this March!
Our guest this week, Kristin Young, knows a thing or two about grief—five years ago, she lost her son Colby to cancer. Miraculously, she knows even more about hope. In this episode, Kristin graciously shares what it’s like to hold sorrow and joy simultaneously, how she’s learned to make grief her friend, and how we often learn things through suffering we could never grasp by only having joy. We hope this conversation offers you a glimmer of hope, and encourages you as much as it did us.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
Well friends, we are going there—you know, that ugly heart issue no one wants to talk about? On today’s episode, we are doing a deep dive on motherhood and comparison. From body image to kid’s development to whether or not we love motherhood as much as the next mom, we get reeeeal honest (and a little emotional!) about our personal struggles in this arena, both past and present. Plus, we share the habits and practices we’ve found most helpful in keeping comparison at bay.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
Is this really happening? Today we are asking the one and only Shauna Niequist (!!!) what she wishes her younger self had known about marriage, friendships, motherhood, and writing. Shauna’s spoken words, just like her written ones, are nothing short of a gift. We hope this conversation inspires you to take a step back from the burden of busyness and expectations, and simply take notice of the beautiful world around you.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
How do we go from worry, overwhelm, and sleepless nights to rest, calm, and indescribable, consistent peace? In today’s episode, we’re talking about boundaries, unpopular decisions, personal convictions, and—most importantly—leaning into what we know we need to do, regardless of what the rest of the world is up to. We hope this conversation encourages you to not just consider what peace looks like, but also consider how you can guard it.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
Ruth Chou Simons (!!!) is here today, reminding us growth and goodness can be found even in—especially in—the minutes (or months!) we’re tempted to believe are wasted. Those creative projects you thought went nowhere? Meaningful. Sitting with your toddler or teen talking about mind-numbing topics? Meaningful. No matter what struggle or tough season you’re currently facing, we hope this conversation encourages you to slow down, let God reroute you however He’d like, and embrace the idea that inefficiency sometimes means making room for what’s most important.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
For part two of our friendship series, we’re chatting about what’s in our friendship toolboxes. From taking initiative (rather than taking turns) to learning the love languages of our friends, today we’re getting nitty-gritty practical about how to show up for our people. We talk about porch drop-offs, tiny thoughtful gestures, the beauty of accepting help, and the powerful act of loving our friends’ kids. We hope this episode encourages you to be the friend you want to have. Because, ultimately, when it comes to friendship, that’s the best place to start!
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
Tap tap. Is this thing on? Hey friends, we’re back! Today we’re starting a brand new season with two new hosts (welcome Katie + Jill!), and we couldn’t be more excited to kick things off with a two-part series on friendship. In part one, we’re chatting about hard lessons learned, some confessions and convictions we’ve had along the way, and, most importantly, the perspective we’re practicing when it comes to friendships (new and old). Hint! It has a lot to do with grace, going with the flow as time passes on, and leaning into gratitude, no matter what season of life or friendship we’re in.
For more encouragement in your motherhood journey, check out the stories at Coffee + Crumbs.
This show is brought to you ad-free by our generous and loving Patreon community. If you’d like to support the work we do for as little as $1/month, head to Patreon.com/coffeeandcrumbs to join the party (where we host episode discussions, bonus content, and more!).
We thought it would be fun to end season four by revisiting some of our most loved episodes. Today is Ashlee’s favorite, where we unpack why motherhood feels so isolating sometimes. Don't miss the episode’s new intro and wrap up, with Indiana, April, and Ashlee's final chat together! Whether you’re new to motherhood altogether or a veteran mom who hasn’t found her tribe yet, we hope you can relate to this vulnerable conversation and walk away inspired to put yourself out there.
Visit us at Patreon to learn more about how you can support us next year.
We thought it would be fun to wrap up season four by revisiting some of our most loved episodes. Don't miss these - each episode has a brand new intro and wrap up with Indiana, April, and Ashlee!
Today is April’s favorite, where we flip the script on our ‘This Is How We Do’ episodes by sharing what we DON’T do. From outsourcing grocery shopping to not making the bed to not washing our hair—this conversation is full of confessions about our mothering, home upkeep, school involvement, and everything in between. We hope this episode makes you laugh and gives you a much-needed permission slip to pursue the things you’re good at, and let go of all the rest.
Visit us at Patreon to learn more about how you can support us next year.
We're wrapping up season four by revisiting some of our most loved episodes. Don't miss these - each episode has a brand new intro and wrap up, with Indiana, April, and Ashlee!
Today is Indiana’s favorite, where we talk about some of the hardest seasons in life that we've walked through. From miscarriage and postpartum depression to infidelity and cancer diagnoses, we're sharing some stories publicly for the very first time and inviting you into our little "circle of trust" this week. This isn't just about clearing the skeletons from the closet though; we're also talking about the most helpful ways our people showed up for us during these difficult times and the lessons we've learned about how to take care of each other when the season is hard and the answers aren't coming easily.
Visit us at Patreon to learn more about how you can support us next year.
We’re so thankful for the support you’ve shown the Coffee + Crumbs podcast over the past four years! Today’s “State of the Podcast” is a simple message from Ashlee about what’s in store for our show in 2020.
Visit us at Patreon to learn more about how you can support us next year.
As mothers, we've received plenty of advice—solicited and unsolicited—over the years. Today we wanted to close out the season by sharing the tips, tricks, and reminders we've received that make motherhood (and life!) a little bit easier. From permission to slow down to how to help our kids deal with big emotions, this season finale is centered around taking some of the mystery out of motherhood as we pass along advice and wisdom you'll want to return to again and again.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode and to support us by supporting the sponsors who made this episode possible.
Stay up to date with what's next for the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, over on our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
Today, we're recapping our favorite things and moments from 2019. Our conversation runs the gamut from the trends we tried and loved to the new habits we've instilled and want to keep as we roll into a new decade (!). We hope our roundup of recipes, podcasts, little luxuries, life hacks, and more inspires you to spend some time reflecting on the goodness of the past year.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode and to support us by supporting the sponsors who made this episode possible.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
Today, we’re diving into the dynamics of in-law relationships. We openly acknowledge our good fortune in having involved, loving in-laws, but there’s always some adjusting that comes with marrying into a family. We talk about balancing the way we honor traditions and ties to our families of origin while still building our own family habits and way of doing things. Plus we discuss the kind of in-laws we aspire to be some day and offer our best advice for how to communicate when there’s a problem or issue.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode and to support us by supporting the sponsors who made this episode possible.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons.
In this week's episode, we're talking about priorities: the ones we have, the ones we think we should have, and the ones we'd like to reorder, if we're being honest. We push back a little against the myth of balance and having it all, choosing instead to view life through the lens of seasons—where sometimes we have the capacity for "full steam ahead" in multiple areas and sometimes it feels like everything but survival is on the back burner. We also discuss how priorities aren't prescriptive; our individual circumstances and personalities weigh heavily on where we devote our time and energy. Regardless of the season you find yourself in, we hope today's conversation leaves you feeling energized to identify and prioritize what matters most to you.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode and to support us by supporting the sponsors who made this episode possible.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons.
In this week's episode, we're talking about the everyday deals and coupons we use to save on our household necessities (and the occasional splurge, as well). From promo codes and our favorite apps to how we shop sales and use referral credits, today we're sharing our best tips and tricks for saving a buck or two. This is not a deep dive into the nitty gritty of monthly budgeting, but rather a lighthearted chat about our individual approaches to how we stretch—and spend—our dollars. Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode (including loads of promo codes and affiliate links!)
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons.
This week, Ashlee and Indiana sit down with Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland from Pantsuit Politics to talk about something important that seems to have gotten lost in today's culture: nuance. Beth and Sarah explain how their communication approach—rooted in curiosity and a desire to understand—highlights the middle ground between argument and apathy. They also talk about how they've learned to move toward each other and a better relationship, even though they hold opposing viewpoints on many issues. Plus, they drop their best suggestions for how to stay informed in an unbiased, non-time-consuming way.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
Today we're talking about our approach to the holidays—from April's Buddy the Elf level enthusiasm from October straight through New Year's to Indiana's more measured approach. We chat about our favorite holiday traditions and how we balance all the time grabs by extended family and friends. Whether elaborate baked goods for the whole neighborhood are your thing or, like Ashlee, you're more comfortable with every boxed mix Trader Joe's offers, you'll feel right at home in this week's conversation.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
At the end of September, most of the Coffee + Crumbs team came together live and in person (!!) for four days in the Pacific Northwest. We weathered an unexpected blizzard, ate all the food, passed around babies, and spoke truth and encouragement into one another's dreams. On our last night together, we sat in the living room of Katie Blackburn's parents' home (who graciously welcomed all 15 of us when we had to evacuate from the mountain), and captured our conversation—and giggles—for your listening pleasure. We all rank our degree of nervousness pre-retreat, recap our funniest and favorite moments from our time together, and speak to the "secret sauce" that connects us to one another in a way that transcends our typical expectations of friendships.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode - including pictures of everyone who came to this retreat so you can match faces with voices!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
Today we're talking all things toys: the ones our kids have loved and played with endlessly, the ones we don't let across our thresholds, and the ones that will haunt our nightmares forever (ahem, we're looking at you, April, and your ventriloquist dummy, Charlie). We cover avoiding the lost lovey disaster and controlling the stuffed animal collection that threatens to take over the bed, plus we run through our favorite, road-tested toy picks in every age group. You'll want to bookmark our show notes for your holiday shopping! Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything mentioned in this episode (including all those great toys!)
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page. We love and appreciate our Patrons!
Today's episode is coming from a more serious and somber place, as we talk about some of the hardest seasons in life that we've walked through. From miscarriage and postpartum depression to infidelity and cancer diagnoses, we're sharing some stories publicly for the very first time and inviting you into our little "circle of trust" this week. This isn't just about clearing the skeletons from the closet though; we're also talking about the most helpful ways our people showed up for us during these difficult times and the lessons we've learned about how to take care of each other when the season is hard and the answers aren't coming easily.
Show Notes:
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page!
This week we're talking about what mornings look like in our households. Spoiler alert: they're a far cry from our pre-kid days of leisurely sipping coffee while meticulously applying makeup and thoughtfully pulling together a coordinated outfit. In this conversation, Ashlee breaks down her new-ish routine designed to make mornings as non-chaotic as possible, April extols the virtues of doing allthethings the night before, and Indiana blows our minds when she confesses her children get up before she does AND fix their own breakfasts. From the pep in our step courtesy of the school system's tardy policy to our tactics for not yelling at our kids to just get their shoes on already (why is it always the shoes?), today we're breaking down our best efforts to start our days off on the right foot.
Show Notes:
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page!
Thank you to this episode's sponsors:
Noom: What if you could use ONE program for all your health and weight loss needs? Head to noom.com/coffeeandcrumbs to start your free trial today.
Healthy Height: Healthy Height shakes are an easy way to supplement breakfast and send your kids to school knowing they have the nutrients their bodies need. Get 30% off your first purchase by visiting Healthy Height and entering promo code COFFEE30 today.
This week we're continuing our conversation with Dr. Juli Slattery and kicking things up a notch. From figuring out how to have an orgasm to what place masturbation has in a healthy marriage, we think you're going to love the frankness and candor in today's episode. Once again, this is not a show designed for little ears, so grab some headphones (or maybe make it a date night in with your husband after the kids are in bed) and listen in as we tackle another round of questions from our Patreon supporters about sex and intimacy.
Like what you heard? Double click 'subscribe' and leave us a review on iTunes!
Show Notes:
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page!
Thank you to this episode's sponsors:
Hello Fresh: Our listeners will get $80 off your first month of Hello Fresh when entering promo code coffeeandcrumbs80.
Light Filled Home:Coffee & Crumbs listeners will get 25% of your entire order when you use promo code COFFEEANDCRUMBS in the shop!
We're back from our sabbatical and comin' in hot with a two-part episode you've been begging us to cover: SEX! Today we're tackling your sex and intimacy questions with expert and psychologist Dr. Juli Slattery. From frequency and mismatched sex drives to how to spice things up, no topic is too taboo. This is not an episode designed for little ears, so grab your headphones and settle in for a frank, honest, and encouraging conversation about connecting intimately with your partner in a hectic season of life. Special thank you to our Patrons for submitting questions for this episode!
Like what you heard? Double click 'subscribe' and leave us a review on iTunes!
Show Notes:
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page!
Thank you to this episode's sponsors:
Buffy: C+C listeners will get $20 off their Buffy comforter by entering promo code COFFEEANDCRUMBS online
Care.com: C+C listeners can get a premium membership for 30% off by using promo code COFFEEANDCRUMBS
This week's episode is airing in tandem with Sarah and Meagan from The Mom Hour podcast—we're both talking about motherhood and the fear of missing out (FOMO). Sometimes we avoid talking about FOMO at the risk of sounding ungrateful, but the truth is there's an opportunity cost with every big decision in life ... and motherhood is no exception. From the temptation to compare ourselves with what we see on social media to actually missing out on things because we couldn't line up childcare or the toddler is sick (again), we open up honestly about where we struggle with FOMO and how we work to shift our perspective from one of lacking to one of gratitude.
Like what you heard? Double click subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode. And don't forget to listen to The Mom Hour's take on FOMO!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
From Indiana’s face blindness to how April balances introversion as a mom, today we're answering questions from YOU, our listeners and Patrons! You asked about everything from April's novel to Indi's thrift shopping to that "conceiving a girl thing" Ashlee mentioned once. We tried to answer as many questions as we could fit into the 100th episode (!) of this show. Plus, we get a little sappy at the end and talk about our favorite things about each other. Thank you for listening and sharing this podcast with friends over the past four seasons!
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
From nip slips to lactating armpits (!) to feeling confident whipping out a bottle of formula, today we're getting honest about the time-consuming and (often literal) draining work of feeding our babies. In this conversation, we're talking about the products and perspectives that make the job a little easier and the importance of giving ourselves permission to see that fed is best. Whether you're formula feeding, exclusively pumping, or it's just you and your B-O-O-B-S on demand, we hope you'll feel seen and encouraged in this week's conversation.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week, we're talking about all the things we didn't know that we didn't know before kids. From a false sense of control (surely good behavior is just a matter of consistent and firm boundaries ... right?) to the things we swore we'd never do only to end up doing them (we're looking at you, goldfish crackers for dinner and weekly baths), there's a lot about motherhood that's upended who we thought we were. But then there are also the parts of us that are unchanged or have only been brought into sharper focus as result of becoming a mom. Whether you're preparing for your first or you're three or four kids into motherhood, we hope this episode makes you laugh and helps you reflect on how raising our kids influences the people we become, too.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week we’re finally talking about the topic April has been dying to cover for two years: laundry. From personalized Ziploc bags for collecting stray socks to how to avoid ironing forever, we’re covering every strategy we have for making laundry easier. If you’ve got last week’s towels still piled haphazardly on the couch because washing AND drying AND folding AND putting away is just two steps too many, shove them to the side and join us for our hacks and hangups about the dirty work of cleaning clothes.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week, Indiana chats with Sophie Hudson—aka “BooMama”—about raising an only child. Sophie laughs about the preconceived stereotypes she’s long-since abandoned (Surprise! Only kids can thrive in team sports!) and shares her tip for making sure a family vacation is fun for all three of them. Plus, you won't want to miss her wise words of encouragement as a mom of a teenager for moms of littles. Whether you find yourself raising an only child by choice or by circumstance, we hope you feel encouraged by this week’s conversation.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
In this week's episode, we're talking about personality typing systems. From Enneagram and Myers Briggs to less official tools like Hogwarts houses and Cosmo quizzes, we have endless options for identifying who we really are and why we do the things we do. We chat about our own lightbulb moments in terms of self-understanding and how that knowledge impacts our relationships with our spouses, children, and friends. While we have plenty of fun and more than one laugh in this conversation, we also explore the way understanding that we're all wired differently has led to a greater sense of compassion for ourselves and others.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode (including those quizzes we know you're dying to take!)
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week we’re talking about minimalism—but don’t worry, we’re not coming to Marie Kondo your closets. Whether you’re a self-identified maximalist like Indiana, an aspiring minimalist like Ashlee or somewhere in between like April (does owning jewel tones disqualify one from being a minimalist?), we hope today's conversation sparks joy for you. Rest assured: this isn’t an episode about how to be a minimalist; rather, we’re exploring the connection between how we feel about what—and how much—we own, and our overall sense of happiness and well-being. Plus, learn who can’t bear to part with her prom shoes, and who secretly keeps a seemingly-unending supply of Target clearance candles on hand.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week we're talking all about creativity—and before you declare yourself uncreative, we've got a pep talk to prove otherwise. From embracing creative sparks in the shower to the hard work of putting our butts in the chair, today we're dishing how we make space for creativity alongside motherhood, and how we're better off for it. Whether you call yourself an artist or not, we hope today's conversation reminds you that motherhood is bursting with creative inspiration.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Join our free 5-day Creativity Kickstart here.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
With summer around the corner, today we’re bringing you an important episode about water safety and drowning prevention. Drowning is the number one cause of death for children under the age of five, but for today’s guest, that’s not just a statistic. Nicole Hughes is with us to share the heartbreaking story of losing her three-year-old son, Levi, to drowning last summer. She also shares the mission behind Levi’s Legacy, which she began in his honor to educate parents about drowning prevention.
We want to warn listeners that today’s episode is highly emotional. We’ll be talking about the death of a child and bearing witness to a mother’s grief. But we also believe strongly in the importance of Levi’s story and the lives that might be saved because of it. Please discuss these matters with your friends and family members this summer—and always remember to designate a Water Guardian when children are near a body of water.
We’re concluding our three-part postpartum series today with a very honest conversation about physically healing from giving birth. Julie Kwong, a pelvic health physical therapist, joins us to talk about how complex and unique the healing process can be, what’s normal and what’s not, and how to advocate for better healing care in the postpartum recovery process.
This is a frank conversation about anatomy and bodily processes—we’re talking about prolapse and pain during sex, hemorrhoids and incontinence, so pop in your earbuds and join us as we combat the embarrassment around this vulnerable topic with honesty, dignity, and education.
We want to encourage any listener who feels like she might be experiencing one of the postpartum complications we discuss today to contact her doctor or care provider; today's episode is informational only and is not designed to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice and attention.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week we continue our three-part postpartum series with a deeper look at postpartum anxiety. From irrational fears to the crushing weight of expectations, C+C art director Lottie Caiella walks us through her personal journey with postpartum anxiety after the birth of her daughter. In the second half of this conversation, we're joined by licensed counselor Dr. Emily Shupert who explains the difference between PPD and PPA, as well as how to differentiate normal new parent worry from anxiety that may need medical treatment. We’re grateful to have Bryn Huntpalmer from The Birth Hour with us again as a special guest host for this episode.
We want to encourage any listener who feels like she might be experiencing postpartum anxiety to contact her doctor or care provider immediately; today's episode is informational only and is not designed to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice and attention.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
This week we begin our three-part postpartum series with an honest conversation about postpartum depression. In this episode, friend of the show Christina Kposowa shares her experience with postpartum depression following the births of her two sons, and we're also joined by licensed counselor Dr. Michele Harding who walks us through the difference between "baby blues" and PPD. She also provides some great suggestions for how we can support other moms who are struggling with postpartum depression and demystifies what that first counseling session might look like. We’re grateful to have Bryn Huntpalmer from The Birth Hour as a special guest host for this episode. We want to encourage any listener who feels like she might be experiencing postpartum depression to contact her doctor or care provider immediately; today's episode is informational only and is not designed to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice and
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and links to everything we talked about in this episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Fear not: this week’s episode has nothing to do with screen time dos and don’ts. Instead, join us for a (very) lighthearted chat about our favorite books, podcasts, and TV shows. From how we score affordable books to our individual headphone preferences, today we're discussing when and how we consume different types of media. We're also making quite a few confessions, so feel free to giggle along as we learn who loves to make friends at the library, who's obsessed with polygamist escape memoirs, and which podcast host doesn't really listen to podcasts
Don't forget to visit Coffee + Crumbs for our show notes and links to everything we talked about in today's episode!
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Between the meals and the snacks and the laundry and the messes, some days it’s hard to view parenting as anything more than surviving those pre-bedtime hours. But we know parenting is not a short-term gig—we're in this for the long haul. In today's episode, we're chatting with author and speaker Krista Gilbert about how we can maintain our long-term priorities in the immediate chaos of motherhood. From the importance of building trust to keeping a sense of humor, this conversation is full of wisdom and practical tips for keeping the long view of parenting in mind. Plus, Krista shares the magic of "tiny traditions" and gives us insight into the coming-of-age trips she does with her children.
Whether your kids are learning how to walk or learning how to use a cell phone, we hope today's conversation encourages you to take a few moments to think about how you can parent for the future, right from the present.
Visit Coffee + Crumbs for today's show notes and to find links to everything talked about in today's episode.
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
In this week’s episode, we’re talking about all things sibling-related, from managing age gaps to mitigating disagreements. With a collective 10 kids between Indiana, Ashlee, and April—and a whopping FORTY-TWO among the full C+C team—we offer our take on how we foster friendships between our kids without forcing them, and the unexpected moments of joy we find along the way.
Don't forget to visit Coffee + Crumbs for our show notes and links to everything we talked about in today's episode!
Like what you heard? Subscribe and leave a review on iTunes! To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
From fear of awkward small talk to embarrassment about baseboard dust bunnies, most of us have our own hangups around hospitality. And yet, inviting people into our imperfect lives and homes is how we build real, authentic relationships. In this week’s episode, we confess to the small stuff we sweat (like the evidence people actually live in our homes) and share how we’re learning to roll out the welcome mat anyway.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review here on iTunes!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
With endless time and unlimited budgets, self care becomes pretty easy (hello tropical beach vacation and weekly massages!). But when we’re balancing motherhood, marriage, and careers—and our bank account isn’t bottomless—how do we make time and give ourselves permission to care for ourselves?
This week we’re talking about what self care looks like for each of us and how that varies depending on the season of life we’re in. April also offers a powerful reminder of the importance of letting our kids see us experience the joyful and delightful parts of life. We hope this conversation leaves you feeling encouraged and empowered to explore what self care looks like for you, whether you have five whole hours a week or just five minutes a day.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review here on iTunes!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
In this week’s episode, we’re talking labor pains and epidurals, amazing nurses and redemptive birth experiences, as Ashlee and April recount the births of their daughters earlier this year. Grab a coffee (and maybe some headphones for this episode!) and settle in for an honest, funny, and heartfelt chat about the nuts and bolts of bringing a baby into the world.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review here on iTunes!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
From our hospital bag favorites to how we make time for baby-bonding with other children running rampant through the house—in this episode, we’re chatting about all things baby prep. Whether you secretly pin nursery decor for months or Amazon Prime a Dock-a-Tot the week before your due date, we hope our conversation today brings some peace (and humor!) to an expectant season.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review here on iTunes!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
We’re baaaaack! Today we’re kicking off Season Four with an honest conversation about how we can really help the new moms in our lives. From avoiding the “just you wait” dump truck to reading cues on whether your Meal Train recipient wants you to sit and chat or drop the food and leave, consider this episode a crash course in new-mom-awareness. We also talk about the hard work of setting our pride aside and asking for help when we need it. Plus, Indiana and Ashlee confess the moments with new moms they wish they could do over.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Four of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
It’s our final episode of 2018, cue the sobs! We’re wrapping up season three by answering YOUR questions, ask us anything style. In this extra-long episode, we’re talking about everything from how motherhood has shaped our faith to what snacks we indulge in when no one is watching. We also share how we chose our kids’ names, how we maintain friendships in this season of life, our favorite feel-good movies, and April spills the details on the book she just finished writing (that’s H-O-S-S, if any literary agents are listening). Plus, you’ll hear the one thing we all agree we wish we had done more of before having kids. We hope you enjoy this last chat of 2018 as much as we enjoyed recording it. From all of us at Coffee + Crumbs, we wish you a merry Christmas and a happy new year!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today Indiana is chatting with Hunter Beless, creator of the Journeywomen podcast, and Christy Curtis, founder of the Military Moms blog, about life at the intersection of motherhood and the military. From surviving deployments to managing fear and anxiety, Christy and Hunter open up about the challenges and emotions they face as military spouses. They also share how non-military families can love their military friends well and one big thing they’d like civilians to please stop doing. Whether you’re a seasoned military mom or a civilian without a clue what life as an enlisted spouse looks like, we hope this episode reminds you of the strength we can all find in community, and grows your empathy for the families serving our country.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
All season we’ve been sharing our tips, tricks and life hacks in our ‘This Is How We Do’ episodes. This time around, we’re flipping the script and sharing what we DON’T do. From outsourcing grocery shopping to not making the bed to not washing our hair—this conversation is full of confessions about our mothering, home upkeep, school involvement, and everything in between. We hope this episode makes you laugh and gives you a much-needed permission slip to pursue the things you’re good at, and let go of all the rest.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Do you ever feel like motherhood has you confined within the four walls of your home, unable to make a difference in the wider world? On today’s episode, we’re chatting with Osheta Moore— author of “Shalom Sistas: Living Wholeheartedly in a Broken World”—about peacemaking. Is there a better topic to cover the day of midterm elections? Osheta speaks passionately about peacemaking in our everyday lives, encourages us to seek subversive joy in the face of despair, and challenges us to tell better stories about the people who frustrate us. Plus, don’t miss her hilarious story about adjusting to the “vehicular Hunger Games” of the school car line and the one uncomplicated question Osheta asks her kids every day to keep their focus on joy.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the world, we hope this episode lifts you up and reminds you that you can be a peacemaker right here, right now, right where you are.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered: where did I go? Today we’re talking about how our personal style has shifted from pre-kid life to mom life. From getting dressed in the morning to washing our face at night—we’re spilling the beans on our makeup, clothing, and skin care must-haves. In this episode, Ashlee divulges which magical perfume earns her compliments from both flight attendants and sandwich shop employees, while Indiana shares a hack for keeping her wardrobe fresh through the holiday season. Plus, April explains why it’s necessary to hire a babysitter to go shoe shopping with her husband. Whether your daily uniform is a ponytail and yoga pants or you can’t leave the house without a swipe of red lipstick, we hope this lighthearted chat puts a smile on your face and reminds you that you’re beautiful inside and out.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today Indiana is chatting with two of her real-life friends about the logistics of being full-time working moms. Jesse Coulter and Akia Ng join us to discuss the tightrope act of daily life, how they juggle childcare drop-offs and pick-ups, what they’ve had to “let go” of, and more. You’ll also hear Jesse share how she prioritizes time with her husband (day dates!) and Akia admits she sometimes has stay-at-home-mom envy. Plus, we hear what moments make it all worthwhile.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Calling all Monica Gellers! From family schedules and laundry to email and to-do lists—today we’re sharing the organizational tips and systems that keep our homes running (relatively?) smoothly. In this episode, April shares a smart hack for managing mail (tip: don’t let it enter the house!), Ashlee passionately discusses her cutthroat approach to clutter, and Indi is mostly just here to listen and learn. Whether you geek out over a pretty color-coded calendar like April or keep your entire family’s schedule in your head like Ashlee, we hope this conversation makes you smile and possibly inspires you to finally tackle that one system in your house that isn’t working.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today we’re talking about motherhood and work with Noonday Collection founder, Jessica Honegger. Despite the internal grappling she endured while building her company as a young mom, Jessica has learned in recent years to embrace the paradox of “and” instead of “either/or” when it comes to working. She also shares about an aha moment she experienced during an exchange with a stay-at-home mom in the middle of Starbucks. (Indi may or may not have cried.) Whether you work full-time or stay at home or find yourself somewhere in between, we hope this dialogue reminds you there is no one-size-fits-all for mothering, and that all of our unique roles are special and worth celebrating.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today we’re pulling back the curtain on how we communicate with our spouses—from arguments to resolutions and everything in between. We’re spilling the beans on our silliest recurring fights, how we do (and don’t) flirt, and when/how we tackle hard conversations in our homes. Plus, you’ll learn our stances on R-rated text messages and why nacho cheese is a surprisingly contentious topic! Whether you’ve been married for two years or two decades, we hope this conversation makes you smile and reminds you that all of our marriages are a work in progress.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
To wrap up our mini-series on growing your family, today we’re talking about infertility with C+C writer Melanie Dale. We discuss how infertility can put pressure on your sex life, the depression Melanie experienced as she was going through fertility treatments, and how she eventually broke through to a healthy place with the help of girlfriends and a counselor. Plus, we hear all about the sperm illustrations in her forthcoming book, Infreakinfertility! For those of you who have walked this road before or are currently walking it now, we hope Melanie’s voice gives you hope for the future and possibly helps you find a tiny bit of humor in it along the way.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
With Ashlee and April both being pregnant, we thought it was high time to discuss the good, the bad and the ugly of gestating (speaking of ugly—does anyone else hate that word?). Tune in today to hear us discuss everything from first trimester puking to maternity fashion to whether or not it’s appropriate to register for your third (or fourth!) baby. You’ll also hear a short rant about the awkwardness of prenatal weigh-ins, and find out which host didn’t know she was pregnant until she was 18 weeks along. Whether you’re in the throes of morning sickness, debating if you can pull off maternity overalls (you so can!), or waddling around three days past your due date—this one goes out to all our fellow pregnant mommas. Growing a human is hard work, and you’re doing an awesome job!
As always, we hope this conversation fills you up like a coffee date with good girlfriends.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
In part two of our mini-series on growing a family, today we’re addressing a side that isn’t often discussed publicly: what happens when spouses disagree on whether or not their family is complete? C+C writers Jenn Batchelor and Anna Quinlan join host Indiana Adams for a vulnerable conversation on what it looks like when one spouse wants another baby, and the other doesn’t. While we don’t have a beautiful bow to wrap up today’s episode with, we hope this raw and honest discussion encourages you, especially if you’re walking a similar road with your spouse.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Bedtime: the struggle is real. Today we’re talking about how we handle the end of the day—who’s in charge of the routine, what tricks we use to keep our kids sleeping as long as possible, and what creative stunts our children can be found pulling at the 8pm hour. We all commiserate over sleep deprivation during those newborn months and April shares her personal philosophy on how getting your baby to sleep is kind of like meeting someone’s pit bull.
We hope this conversation makes you smile and reminds you that you are not alone in your bedtime trials!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
At Coffee + Crumbs, motherhood is what brings us together, but how did we get here? On today’s episode, we discuss whether or not we always wanted to be mothers, what those conversations looked like with our partners, and if we’re “done” now. You’ll learn who used to play pregnancy by stashing pillows under her shirt, who dreams of having a Home Alone sized family around her Thanksgiving table, and who never thought she’d be a mom but had a change of heart. Stick around for a big announcement during the second half of the show … well, a few big announcements, actually!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
While we may still be hitting the pool daily and enjoying ice cream all-too-frequently, we can almost hear the school bus rambling around the corner. Today we’re talking about all things back to school: packed lunches, first day of school traditions, the carpool situation, and more! Plus, April shares some tips for getting off to a great start with your child’s teacher and it does NOT involve a mason jar (phew!). We also come up with a million dollar business idea so if you’d like to take MUber to Shark Tank on our behalf, please be our guest.
We hope this conversation gets you excited for the coming school year and maybe even inspires you to start a new tradition. Don’t forget to stay tuned to the very end to hear this week’s slow clap from listener MeLoni!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today we’re wrapping up our mini-series on how to have important conversations with your kids, and, well, this one is going to make you blush the most because we’re talking about SEX. Our guest today is Kristen Crichton, a marriage and family therapist and professor of human sexuality at William Jessup University.
Kristen packs a punch in this conversation, reminding us why this dialogue should start at birth—because the greatest enemy of sexual wholeness is silence. Plus, she reminds us that we need to be the ones to tell our kids sex is fun and also teach them to respect Mom and Dad’s locked door. We hope you leave this episode feeling empowered to make the most of every opportunity and every curious observation!
Remember: if you need to practice saying body parts without blushing or giggling, this makes an excellent Girls Night In. For more on this topic, be sure to head to our shownotes for a comprehensive list of book recommendations from Kristen.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
While our homes may have been overtaken by Cheerios and Legos, we still have dreams of their potential. Today we’re talking about all things home decor: how we define our home style, where we like to shop, what room we’d love to make over if we won the lottery, and some of our worst home decorating flops. Plus, Indiana tells us about her prized golden armadillo, and Ashlee shares why she’ll never buy another rocking chair off Craigslist. We hope this conversation leaves you feeling inspired to channel your inner Joanna Gaines, right after you make the kids pick up those Legos … again.
P.S. Don’t forget to head to our website and check out the mood boards we created in the show notes today!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Continuing our mini-series on how to have important conversations with your kids, on today’s episode we tackle how to talk about tricky people. Sam Sutherland—a social worker with more than 10 years of experience working with schools and social welfare organizations—joins Indiana and Ashlee to share her expertise on this topic. In this conversation, you’ll learn why it’s best to use the term “tricky people” over stranger danger, five rules to teach our kids by the time they’re five years old, and some general tips for how we can empower our kids to trust their instincts. Plus, we talk about Sam’s stance on sleepovers, the difference between secrets and surprises, and why she’s never afraid to be the bad guy. We hope you leave this episode feeling equipped to have this conversation with your kids, and possibly implement some new strategies to help keep your family safe.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
To Pinterest or not to Pinterest—that is the question. On today’s episode we’re talking about all things birthday party! From big themed bashes to simple parties at the park, we cover invitations, menus, gifts and more on this much-requested topic. Plus, Indiana reveals the full name of Chuck E. Cheese (who knew he had a real name?!), and Ashlee goes on an accidental rant about her deep hatred of goody bags. Whether you’re an overachiever, underachiever, or fall right in the middle when it comes to birthday parties, remember: all kids really want is cake.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
As part of our debut mini-series on how to have important conversations with your kids, today we’re talking all about race. Latasha Morrison, founder of beabridgebuilder.com, joins host Indiana Adams and Coffee + Crumbs writer Melanie Dale to educate us on how to approach this topic with our children, and how to lead by example in the quest for racial unity. Tasha also speaks about the difference between diversity and racial reconciliation, the difference between being color brave and color blind, and how we can equip our children to speak up when they witness an injustice. We hope this dialogue inspires you to start having some conversations about race in your home, if you haven’t already.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Join us for today’s episode as we reflect on our love/hate relationship with exercise. We may as well have titled this episode, Fitness: This is How We Don’t. You’ll hear Ashlee share about the first and last Bikram yoga class she ever took, find out the real reason Indiana takes up new exercise hobbies (hint: shoes are involved) and cringe along with us as April shares her horrifying yet hilarious ballet class fail. You may not walk away with many practical tips from this episode, but maybe your abs will get a work out from laughing? We sure hope so.
Like what you heard?
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To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Let’s hear it for the dads! On today’s episode, Kevin Madsen (hilarious host of the HeyDad podcast) joins us to talk about all things #dadlife. We discuss the cultural shift taking place in modern day fatherhood, dad stereotypes that drive Kevin nuts, and why men need good friends just like women do. Plus, Kevin shares an encouraging word for women who want to empower their husbands to lean into their roles as fathers. As you know, we only have a man on our show once in a blue moon, so we hope you enjoy this extra-special Father’s Day episode!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
On today’s episode, we’re chatting about all things summer vacation. From flying with babies to surviving epic road trips, we hope this conversation leaves you feeling better equipped next time you head out of town with kiddos in tow. In this episode, Ashlee shares her secret for keeping kids quiet in the car, Indiana reveals her deep-seated love of all things Disney, and everyone has a good laugh over April’s travel motto: Eat, Pray, Prime. (As Melanie Shankle would say—put that on a t-shirt.) Happy summer travels!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
On today’s episode of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, we approach a topic that every mother has likely faced at some point: loneliness. In this honest conversation, we unpack why motherhood in particular feels so isolating sometimes and ask ourselves, how can we be good friends even when we feel lonely ourselves? Whether you’re new to motherhood altogether, or a veteran mom who hasn’t found her tribe yet, we hope you can relate to this vulnerable conversation and walk away inspired to put yourself out there. Plus, you’ll get to hear how Indiana and Katie (our podcast producer) met over a very glamorous matchmaking scheme in the middle of Costco. If you only get one thing from this episode, let it be this: even in your loneliness, you are not alone.
Can you relate to this conversation? Who are the friends that keep this season of motherhood from being lonely for you?
Like what you heard?
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To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Ever wonder how other couples manage to have a regular date night once kids enter the picture? Today April, Indiana and Ashlee chat about the complexity of making date night happen with kids running around. You’ll hear how the concept of ‘date night’ has changed from pre-kids to post-kids, how they make childcare work, what makes for a great date, and of course, what makes for a bad one as well. Plus, April shares about her ‘stay-in date night clothes’ and you’ll get to find out what bizarre thing Indiana and her husband did for a cheap night out back in college. Whether your ideal date night includes a four-course meal at a hip restaurant or eating takeout on the couch, we hope you feel encouraged after this episode to plan a date night of your own this month!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
On today’s show we talk with proud Texan, veteran blogger and New York Times bestselling author, Melanie Shankle, or as you may know her, Big Mama. Melanie was one of our most requested guests last season so we were thrilled she was able to share her hilarious, raw, and beautiful view of motherhood with us. Find out where the nickname Big Mama comes from, what lie both she and April are guilty of telling their pediatrician, and laugh along with us as we reflect on the myriad mundane moments that make up a life of mothering. Disclaimer: you’ll also learn what the tweens today consider “oldies” on their playlists—and it’s gonna make you feel old.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
Today we’re talking about something close to all of our hearts: the art of gift giving. We share the good, the bad and the downright ugly gifts we’ve received, and we also share our philosophy on what makes a good gift (hint: it’s not about the money). In this episode we offer tips for how to come up with a great gift when you’re stumped and we laugh about the curse of being a gift-loving girl married to a man who just doesn’t get it. Plus, you’ll hear all about that one time Indiana’s husband gave her a nose hair trimmer. Join us and laugh along as we unpack the art of giving gifts, Coffee + Crumbs style.
P.S. We’ve linked our favorite gift-giving sources and more gifts we love in the show notes today, so check them out!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
“Exhaustion has become the social norm among busy women. And let’s admit the hard truth, we often find ourselves glorifying those busy schedules, giving ourselves a pat on the back when we squeeze one more commitment into an already too-packed day, and admiring others who seem to handle the juggling act as if they were a professional in a three-ring circus.”
On today’s episode Indiana talks with Shaunti Feldhahn, author and social researcher, about her latest research-based book, Finding Rest, and the practices science says we should make a part of our daily lives in order to become more rested women. Listen as they unpack the lie we believe that keeps us from rest and don’t miss Shaunti sharing one simple thing that has been scientifically shown to improve 89% of relationships within 30 days ...
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
In today’s episode, we’re chatting about all things meal planning! Can you guess who geeks out over meal planning, who couldn’t get dinner on the table without her kitchen gadgets, and who would rather just serve cereal for dinner?! You’ll also hear Indiana show off her French skills and break down what on earth ‘sous-vide’ means, while April describes her “old school” meal planning techniques. Plus, Ashlee shares about that one time she went to McDonald's in the middle of the night while she was pregnant and destroyed the evidence before crawling back into bed. Whether you’re a meal planning pro or cereal enthusiast, we hope you find laughter and grace in our “fed is best” motto for this episode.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
“You don’t have to be blooming to be growing.” Oh, how encouraged we are by these words from Ruth Chou Simons! On today’s episode Indiana and Ashlee chat with Ruth, artist, photographer and mom to six boys, about her initial calling as an artist, her current blossoming career and what life looked like in the waiting in between. We talk about what it looks like to cultivate hope in the midst of the mundane, uncertainty, and creative setbacks.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
What do you do when your baby stops napping? (Tip: cry is not the answer.) In the first of our brand-new “This Is How We Do” episodes, Indiana, April and Ashlee share how they carve out time for themselves each day now that their kids are older. Quiet time, rest time, play-by-yourself-away-from-mommy-time … whatever you call it, this is when momma gets a much-needed break. Plus, you’ll learn why Ashlee is still hanging on to her baby gate, why Indiana doesn’t keep toys in her kids’ rooms, and the magical “adventure treat” April hands out to keep her kids busy.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Three of the Coffee + Crumbs podcast, head on over to our Patreon support page.
When was the last time you and a friend had a conversation that got really vulnerable? Come to think of it, when was the last time you had a conversation with a friend about anything at all?! In today’s episode Indiana chats with Jamie Ivey about the necessity of friendship, the value of vulnerability and how to be a “safe person” for others. Tune in to hear what Indiana does to make Jamie (almost) cry and stick around for Jamie’s encouraging word for mothers of young children.
Like what you heard?
Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
We’re baaaaack! In our premiere episode for season three, we’re tackling motherhood + social media. Like most things, social media is neutral in and of itself, but it’s the way we use it that has the power to build us up or tear us down. This week we’re talking about how we use social media as both consumers and creators, why we occasionally take breaks from Instagram, what happens when we compare ourselves to others online, and the pitfalls of seeking validation from strangers. You’ll also get to meet our fabulous new podcast host—who, of course!—found out about the job on Instagram.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
It’s our final episode in 2017 (sob!) and Lesley has a big announcement to make (more sobs!). This week we’re answering YOUR questions. You’ll hear us chat about our favorite mom hacks, our favorite beauty products, how we talk to our kids about faith, and how we deal with rough toddler transitions. We also tackle mom guilt, sleep training, and picky eating. Oh, and April gets a serious case of the giggles when Ashlee confesses how many times she’s joined and quit the gym. This episode is extra long, and we hope it tides you over until we return next year!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Christmas is around the corner and we are determined to enjoy the season. In this episode we talk with Alex Kuykendall about her new book, Loving My Actual Christmas. You’ll hear us discuss how to fall in love with the season again, reflecting on themes of advent—hope, love, joy and peace—plus, practical advice on common Christmas stressors such as finances, schedules and extended family. We hope you’ll finish this episode with the encouragement to go easy on yourself, remember what truly matters, and find joy in your own imperfect Christmas.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
In this episode Lesley chats with Sharon Hodde Miller about her new book, Free of Me: Why Life is Better When It’s Not About You. We talk about insecurity—including our struggles with measuring ourselves against other women, the perils of image management, and what happens when we make parenting all about us. But it’s not all deep and heavy! Sharon also tells a story about a fun surprise her husband recently planned for their anniversary and we discuss the classic 90’s film She’s All That. While we continue to live in a self-focused culture, we hope this paradigm-shifting message encourages you and challenges you in all the right ways.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Making baby books, creating photos albums, and keeping track of hundreds of family videos is enough to make any momma break out in hives! This week we’re talking about allllll the ways to keep track of your family memories with easy, creative ideas for every personality type. From our favorite brands and products to technical logistics, we’ll help you make a plan for storing and displaying all the beautiful memories you make each year. Plus, Ashlee gives a Christmas card photo pep talk, and April asks if she should make her kids a Powerpoint. Don’t worry—we talked her out of that idea. Join us for a fun (and practical!) episode on how to preserve memories while also preserving your sanity.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
When a family learns their child has a disability, the road ahead is often filled with many questions, pain and unknowns. In this episode, Lesley chats with two very special mamas about their very special kids. Katie Blackburn (a listener favorite and our first returning guest!) is back sharing about her son’s recent autism diagnosis along with Regina Robinson, mama to four children including a son with Down Syndrome. We encourage all women to listen to this episode with a pen in hand, ready to learn how to navigate the waters of a new diagnosis, or, to simply discover how to encourage the families at your playgrounds and churches who need friends in their journey.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
It’s a decision every woman makes at some point in her motherhood journey: will she stay home, work part-time, juggle an at-home business, or work full-time? For some the decision is obvious; for others, it’s a series of fluctuating factors. In this special ad-free episode, we are getting real honest about the joys and struggles of pursuing part-time work while raising young children. We discuss all that went into our decisions, things we didn’t consider but wished we had, and the pros and cons of working from home. No matter where you fall on the spectrum—stay-at-home mom, full-time working mom, or somewhere in between—we hope you'll feel encouraged by this conversation and remember that God has a unique plan for your life and family.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
In this episode we’re talking to three mothers about their different educational values and choices. From a public Spanish immersion school to Charlotte Mason homeschooling to a classical style private school, you’ll hear how each family landed on their respective choices, what they love about their schools, and some of the things to consider as you wrestle with options for your own family—including how faith can play a role in that decision. We hope this episode leaves you feeling encouraged and empowered, better understanding the choices other mothers make and the beauty that comes with every option.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
If you’ve been a mom longer than 24 hours (or should we say 24 minutes?), you know there’s no room for perfectionism when it comes to parenting. So why do most of us still hold ourselves to unrealistic standards? In this episode, we talk with recovering perfectionist, Sarah R. Bagley, about how children have changed our “good enough” meters. We also talk about what the weight of control feels like physically, how to avoid passing the perfectionism gene to our kids, and our advice for new moms who are worried they’re not getting it right (Sarah may have made us cry with that one!). Plus, Lesley gives Ashlee a lunch box hack that’s changing her morning routine for the better.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Life is messy. We know this. But women––ordinary, everyday women––have never been braver, stronger, or more self-empowered. We are, as Jen Hatmaker says, bringing moxie back. In this episode we get to chat with one of our favorite women on the planet about her new book “Of Mess and Moxie: Wrangling Delight Out of This Wild And Glorious Life.” With her classic humor and warmth, Jen gives us the pep talk we didn’t even know we needed—permission to leave our mom guilt behind, chase our God-given talents, and ‘feel our feelings’ whether we’re sending kids off to kindergarten or college this fall. Plus, because we couldn’t resist, we also ask her about incredibly important things like fashion, Whole30 and This Is Us.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
In this week’s episode we keep it light and fun with a guide to getting dressed—from the actual logistics of getting ready in the morning (anyone tried to put on skinny jeans with a baby hanging on one leg?) to how important it is to change out of yoga pants every once in a while. From fluctuating bodies to changing careers, April, Ashlee and Lesley share what they’ve learned about style since becoming mothers. Plus, April shares her favorite postpartum clothing tips, and Ashlee explains why she hopped on the capsule wardrobe bandwagon. This is an episode for anyone who needs a reminder that while fashion can be fun, it’s also not where we’ll truly find our confidence. (Phew!)
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Today’s candid conversation is with Rachael Kincaid (one of our all-time favorite people to follow on the Internet!). We cover the full gamut of topics—from what it’s like to become a mother of six in just three short years, to some of the joys and challenges of step-parenting. We also talk about why her youngest children aren't involved in many extracurricular activities, what it’s like to not have a dishwasher, how Rach and her husband protect their marriage, and how she gets time with each kid despite working full time outside the home. Rachael has been inspiring us online for years, and we’re so thrilled to share a bit of her heart with you this week!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
When Coffee + Crumbs listener Allie Roepe reached out to us last fall with a show idea around being a mother “half the time,” we asked if she'd be interested in sharing her experience. In this episode we talk about what it’s like to parent after a divorce, Allie’s desire to split equal custody with her ex-husband, why their arrangement is even harder as time passes, and the everyday logistics of sharing custody. Allie also offers her encouragement for single moms or families navigating custody conversations. Plus, we talk about what we’re reading, watching, and making for breakfast these days.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Everyone loves a good birth story, so, as April put it, we’re bringing you the Coffee + Crumbs Vagina Monologues. In this episode we talk about allll the different ways we’ve birthed our babies from c-sections to epidurals to the un-medicated route--and the things we’ve liked and disliked about each. Plus, we get real about hospital undies and share the best advice you might ever hear about birth plans. You might want to listen to this one with headphones on.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
In honor of Father's Day, we're thrilled to be interviewing our first male guest! Father and couples counselor Zach Brittle joins us this week to talk about the transition into fatherhood, how dads can find friendship (and whether moms should help), and the very best thing you can get a man for Father’s Day. This candid conversation about parenthood and marriage will be an episode that both moms and dads can relate to. Plus, Ashlee gears up for Whole 30, and we share a few bands that are making us happy this month.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
This week April and Lesley talk with Sarah Powers, co-host of The Mom Hour Podcast, about the best and hardest parts of having three kids. We talk about what went into our decisions to grow our families, how our pregnancies and births differed each time, and the hardest parts of adjusting to life with three. Plus, Sarah offers encouragement for moms of littles (it only gets better!) and April lusts after Lesley’s leather minivan seats.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
In this episode, we’re talking with Catherine McNiel about incorporating spiritual disciplines into our lives as mothers. That’s right: we’re diving into rich, soul-inspiring practices for moms who want to grow in their faith, but have neither quiet nor time. Regardless of your background, this is a guilt-free episode for mothers who want to connect with God without adding more “shoulds” into their lives. Plus, Catherine’s encouragement to young mommas who find going to church in this stage of life flat out exhausting.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
What are you doing to celebrate Mother’s Day this year? What do you wish you were doing? This week we’re talking about all things Mother’s Day: the history of the holiday itself, what to do when your spouse isn’t a mind-reader, how to share the day with others, and what our ideal Mother’s Day really looks like. Plus, fellow C+C writer Sonya Spillmann gets honest about why this holiday can be extra bittersweet for women who’ve lost their own mothers.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
This week we’re talking with Jena Holliday-- artist, illustrator, and creator of Spoonful of Faith. You’ll hear us talk about what it’s like to mother when you have a chronic illness, and why autoimmune diseases can be especially mysterious and frustrating for so many women. Jena also offers gentle advice to moms who are struggling with their identity, and how to take the first step in chasing dreams. Plus, Jena and Lesley both get brave and share dreams they haven’t said out loud before!
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
The Magic of Motherhood is officially out! This week we’re recapping all things book launch: the party in Sacramento, what it was like for the Coffee + Crumbs writers to meet in real life, our favorite moments from the weekend, and more! Plus, you’ll hear Ashlee Gadd and April Hoss read one of their essays from The Magic of Motherhood. We wish we could have parties in all the cities, but until we win the lottery, this recap is the best we could do.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
Marriage is hard work. Throw in a few kids and it can be extra, extra hard work. In this episode, we’re getting real honest about some of the storms we’ve weathered in our marriages. Plus, you'll hear why all of us are advocates for marriage counseling, how we split up household chores, creative ways we make time for our spouses, and April's three guiding questions for couples who work opposite schedules.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
We’re baaaaaack! The giggles and chit chat are at an all time high as we reconnect after our long three month break from podcasting. In this episode we’re talking about all the ways we’ve changed since having children--from the stuff we swore we’d never let our kids wear and do, to our post-baby beauty routines. Plus, we’re joined by a few C+C writers as we vulnerably share some of the ways our bodies look and feel different since birthing children.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
We’re celebrating the end of our first season by answering listener questions. In this super fun episode you’ll hear Ashlee, April and Lesley talk about everything from sleep training to breastfeeding, what we’re making for dinner, the best postpartum jeans, establishing our own family traditions, and what we’re buying our kids for Christmas. We hope you’ll laugh with us as we joyfully celebrate the end of season one.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
April Hoss reads her essay, Consider Yourself Warned, about how difficult the holiday season can be for women waiting to get pregnant or adopt.
In this episode we interview hit blogger and HGTV.com star Erin Loechner about how she turned away from fame and frenzy to chase a slower lifestyle. We talk about everything from capsule wardrobes to slow blogging, cutting down on social media use, and managing gift giving during the holiday season. This one will change your perspective, renew your priorities, and shift your focus for 2017.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
To help fund Season Two of the Coffee + Crumbs Podcast, head on over to our brand new Patreon support page.
On today's Coffee Break, Lesley reads her essay Preparing to Jump, about the sometimes complicated decision of trying to get pregnant for the first time.
In this episode, Lesley gets to chat with New York Times bestselling author, Ann Voskamp, about her new book The Broken Way. You’ll hear Ann’s encouragement for moms who feel like they don’t have enough time in their days (hint: swap your to-do list with a to-love list), and learn what the gift of going first means. Plus—why both women are drawing crosses on their wrists, some of Ann’s advice for mama writers, and her charge to Americans on Election Day. If you’re feeling sad, discouraged or just a little fragile—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
On today's Coffee Break, regular C+C contributor Melanie Dale talks about that one time she snuck away to a movie theater in the middle of the day with a friend, and why having older kids is awesome.
When Love Feels Heavy by N’tima Preusser is still, by far, the most well-read essay on Coffee + Crumbs. Today, N’tima shares more about her postpartum mental health journey, subtle signs that you may be struggling with depression or anxiety, and some ideas of what to do if you are. This is one of our most authentic, touching episodes yet; a breath of fresh air for any mama in the trenches of infant life.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
October is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, and it’s a season for recognizing the pain so many families experience but don’t always feel comfortable talking about. In this episode Lesley talks to clinical psychologist Dr. Jessica Zucker about her personal story of loss, the grief process and changing the way we talk about miscarriage. Plus, hear about a new C+C initiative to help mothers in developing countries.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
This week we’re talking to Krystal Festerly, mom of three and editor of The Village Magazine. You’ll hear all about how The Village got started--she launched it the same day she gave birth to her second child--and why the quarterly publication is dedicated to bringing back sisterhood between mommas. Plus, hear a little about Krystal’s third birth, and why she calls it a healing experience.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
In part two of our working mom conversation, Lesley and Kelsey discuss the term “default parent” and how they split up household chores with their husbands. Plus, three things Kelsey does as soon as she walks in the door at night, her kitchen whiteboard system to manage the chaos, how she gets herself fed every morning (freezer burritos!), and the chores her family chooses to outsource.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Being a full-time working mom is quite the juggling act. In this episode, Lesley talks with Kelsey Wharton, co-host of The Girl Next Door podcast. You’ll hear about Kelsey’s transition back to work after her first baby (it was harder than she thought it would be), simple ways she simplifies her evenings, and how all moms need to support each other in the quest to make workplaces more breastfeeding/pumping friendly. Plus, hear about Kelsey’s beauty capsule routine and how a sleep coach saved her sanity. (Also: spoiler alert! This is a two-part episode with Kelsey. Check back later this week for the second half of our conversation.)
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Being a mom is all of it: light and dark, highs and lows, fever pitch frustration and all-consuming love. In this episode we get to chat with Mandy Arioto, author of the newly released book Starry-Eyed, about how the brightest and darkest moments of motherhood can become a sacred opportunity to encounter God. We talk about pursuing rest in our busy lives, celebrating our worthy callings as mothers, beating the comparison trap, and why telling our stories is so important. Plus, the single most important question you can ask another woman and a few tips on keeping little ones busy in the late afternoon hours.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
This is an episode with a very special mama of two very special kids. We’re talking with Heather Avis, author of the The Lucky Few, about raising children with Down Syndrome. Find out what made Heather afraid when she was preparing to adopt them, how we as parents can teach our kids to be inclusive of children who may look or act different, and why raising a child with special needs is the ultimate honor. Plus, April and Lesley lament the terrible day when children give up their mid-day nap. This is an episode that will encourage your soul and may even cause you to look differently at your own parenting journey.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review on iTunes!
Creating a baby registry is one of the most overwhelming tasks for soon-to-be-parents. In this episode, we're talking about our favorite registry items, the things we registered for but never used, and strategies for finding products that work for your unique personality and lifestyle. We also chat about some of our favorite brands, the ongoing search for the perfect stroller (#facepalm), and why Babylist is the best baby registry on the planet. Plus, you'll get to eavesdrop as Ashlee, Lesley, and April learn a lot of new facts about each other (one of them uses pacifier wipes, gasp).
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave a review on iTunes!
It’s hard to stay original on the internet, but Nicole DeFord of Jelly Bird Signs shares how she finds inspiration to create her wildly popular rustic wooden signs which sell out within seconds of their release on Etsy. We chat about her unique business model, what it’s like to work with her husband, best advice for decorating your house, and how to pursue art in the midst of a crazy, busy life. Plus, all three ladies admit to driving minivans.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave a review on iTunes!
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In this week’s episode, Lesley interviews three Coffee + Crumbs writers about how they each adopted baby boys through the foster care system. We discuss why they chose this route of adoption, the best and hardest parts along the way, and how to take the first step. Whether you’re considering adoption for your own family, or simply want to be inspired by real stories of powerful love, this is an episode you shouldn’t miss.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave a review on iTunes!
With summer around the corner, fitness is at top of mind for many women. But beating yourself up, or using guilt as a way to motivate you to eat right and exercise, never works. In this episode, pilates instructor Robin Long of The Balanced Life encourages moms to take care of their body and mind, once and for all.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave a review on iTunes!
Is every pregnancy the same? Is labor always scary, even if you’ve done it before? Three pregnant mamas talk about the unique fears, joys, and challenges they’re experiencing while anticipating first, second and third babies. Plus, the baby products we’re most excited about owning this time around.
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey. And, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave a review on iTunes!
Get ready for a fascinating conversation with an American mom raising her bicultural and bilingual daughter in Guatemala. We talk about how our own traditions and childhoods play into our parenting, the role of extended family in raising a child, and the beauty of owning fewer material items amongst other interesting differences in raising a child outside the United States. And, for our listeners with a sweet tooth, Ashlee and Lesley discuss their sugar addiction (and why it’s totally fine to eat dessert every night!)
Like what you heard? Visit coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey, plus you'll find show notes for this episode and a shop full of darling products for moms. Also, don't forget to subscribe and/or leave us a review in iTunes!
We’re convinced there are few childhood milestones parents fear more than potty training. Get ready for a hilarious and honest conversation with Lesley, Ashlee and April as they share the highs and lows of their own children’s experiences. Whether you’re gearing up to potty train, or in the thick of a terrible training experience, you’ll love this fun and encouraging potty pep talk.
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for episode show notes and a growing archive of inspiring essays and podcasts. Also, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes!
The road to motherhood isn’t always easy. In fact, 1 in 8 couples struggle with infertility. In this episode, April and Lesley interview regular Coffee + Crumbs writer, Suzy Krause, about her pregnancy story. Suzy talks about how Mother’s Day can be an especially difficult holiday, the role social media can play in the painful waiting game, and what to say (and not to say) to a friend trying to get pregnant.
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for episode show notes and a growing archive of inspiring essays and podcasts. Also, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes!
Three self-employed working moms discuss the importance of teaching our kids what we do when we're not emptying the dishwasher. Plus, hear about the logistics, joys and challenges of pursuing career ambitions while managing the demands of young children.
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey, plus show notes on this and every episode. Also, don’t forget to subscribe and/or leave a review in iTunes!
When you have three kids under the age of three, you know a thing or two about the joys and frustrations of motherhood. We chat with regular Coffee + Crumbs writer, Katie Blackburn, about keeping a big picture perspective during the very busy season of mothering young children. Katie offers wise and encouraging advice for any woman in the trenches of motherhood, plus April, Katie and Lesley talk about how often kids get sick all the time.
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey, plus show notes on this and every episode. Also, don’t forget to subscribe and/or leave a review in iTunes!
What’s scarier: a swanky cocktail party where you don’t know anyone, or trying to break into the mom circle at your local park? In this episode, Lesley and Ashlee talk with author Melanie Dale about why friendship with other moms is so important, the four bases in a mom dating relationship, and how to take a friendship to the next level. Plus, the easiest way to feel pretty when you’re six months pregnant.
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey, plus show notes on this and every episode. Also, don’t forget to subscribe and/or leave a review in iTunes!
Welcome to the all-new, much anticipated podcast from Coffee + Crumbs. In our first episode we chat about what you can expect from our new show, or, how we basically want to be Sarah Koenig when we grow up. Plus, hear about Ashlee’s love for grocery store flower bouquets, and the big mistake April made before her scheduled c-section. (Hint: we’re talking about bikini waxes!)
Like what you heard? Visit www.coffeeandcrumbs.net for more inspiration on your motherhood journey, plus show notes on this and every episode. Also, don’t forget to subscribe and/or leave a review in iTunes!