The 5 to 8 Shift with Susannah McMonagle, a podcast for parents: Recent Episodes
Parenting Survival
The 5 to 8 Shift is a community and resource for parents. Here to encourage you, provide some tips, and remind you that you're doing great.
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast is hosted by Susannah and 3 times a month she invites guests to share their stories with you. Episodes highlight the highs and lows of parenting, provide a good laugh as we all commiserate together, or impart the latest research and tips to help families thrive.
We’re thrilled to cheer you on in your own 5 to 8 shift - it's your most important shift of the day.
Connect: Instagram - @susannah.mcmonagle / the5to8shift.com
I love the Enneagram and I won't stop talking about it! I was thrilled to have Jackie Brewster on the show to talk about her new book, The Enneagram and Your Marriage. If you haven't gotten a chance to check out the Enneagram - that's ok! Jackie walks us through the 9 different types and gives a brief overview of what the Enneagram is. Beyond that, she talks about all the ways the Enneagram Personality Typing System can help you be the best you you've ever been!
We chat -- What makes the Enneagram such a helpful tool for couples
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The quick overview of the 9 different Enneagram Types
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Breaking Down Barriers and Childhood Messages (so thought-provoking ya'll!) - and how these are keeping you from the best relationship ever
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How to help you help yourself through implementing this tool
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...and how this work is going to transform your marriage!
Check out Jackie's new book here - and share with your bestie who loves the Enneagram. Thanks for being here!
Connect with Jackie:
Instagram // Website // The Enneagram and Your Marriage
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/susannah-mcmonagle/message
If you are feeling weary, burnt out or in need of renewal, Bonnie Gray has beautiful encouragement for you on today's episode. Bonnie Gray is a Soul Care mentor and the author of Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm, Whispers of Rest, Finding Spiritual Whitespace and Sweet Like Jasmine. Having healed from PTSD, Bonnie is passionate about helping thousands of listeners detox stress and flourish in emotional wellness with God’s love through soul care, Bible Study and prayer.
In this episode, we chat -
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The value of understanding the 4 quadrants of wellness - Spiritual, Social, Emotional + Physical
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Why self-care and soul care are not selfish, but spiritual acts of faith
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Parenting + Mental Health - How to use these tools with your kids
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How Soul Care prompts patient pursuit of your kids
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The 4 Rs that will transform moments of chaos to calm: Refresh, Release, Restore & ReflectWe get a little vulnerable in this conversation too! Click here to take Bonnie's Soul Care Quiz where you can learn more about where your wellness ranks and how to find renewal + more.
Let us know what you think about this episode - we'd love your 5-star review! Listen in now and share with a Mama who could use some rest and Soul Care this week.
Connect with Bonnie:
Website // Instagram // Soul Care Quiz // Breathe: 21 Days to Stress Less and Transform Chaos to Calm
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/susannah-mcmonagle/message
The Family Dinner Project is one of my favorite nonprofits to follow on social media, and today's guest, Bri DeRosa, of The Family Dinner Project, shares some wonderful insight for families. Whether you have toddlers, elementary-aged kids, or high schoolers - there is something for you in this episode to help you think about dinner in new ways that benefit your kids tremendously.
In episode 73, we chat -
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The compelling research that drives this initiative to support families
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Advice for families with little kids - how to make dinner smoother
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Advice for families with older kids and lots of activities - how to prioritize connection above all
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What to do if you are a mama out there who wants to prioritize family dinner but the kids are nuts and life is crazy - a simple plan with where to start
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If a mom listening right now wants to prioritize family dinner but it feels awkward to gather around the table the first time - some ways that that particular dinner can go more seamlessly
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...and so much more!
Like today's episode? We'd love your review on Apple or Spotify. Thanks for being here!
Connect with The Family Dinner Project:
Instagram // Website // Facebook
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Want to take your routine to the next level? Ashley Brown, creator of Routine & Things, can help. She has been building a platform around routines that work for women and she is sharing many of her tips today.In episode 72, we chat -
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Why it's important for women to have routines that work for their family
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The reasons why spontaneity and structure can co-exist (and be amazing for our family!)
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The difference between routines and habits
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How to implement Ashley's Routine Block Planning System to set your week up for success
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Tips for making a routine stick
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....and how routine can change your life!
Listen in and share with a friend today who is trying reset her family's routine.
Connect with Ashley
Instagram // Website // The Routine & Things Planner (Out April 1st!)
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Mothers often feel guilt when they pursue something that takes time away from their kids, especially when that something could be deemed less important than parenting. Today's guest, Ashlee Gadd, gives readers permission to pursue their creative gifts alongside motherhood. (And you are going to love her down-to-earth advice and encouragement.)
In Ep. 71, we chat -
- The benefits of being creative - even when you've got your hands full
- Advice for someone who knows they need an outlet but isn't sure where to start
- The many ways motherhood inspires our creative endeavors
- Ashlee's advice to someone who is tired, frustrated, feels like quitting on their own creative journey
Pre-order your copy of Create Anyway: The Joy of Pursuing Creativity in the Margins of Motherhood (Bethany House Publishers, March 28, 2023) anywhere books are sold and check out Ashlee's online community for women, Coffee + Crumbs.
Connect with Ashlee
Website // Insta // Coffee + Crumbs // New Book!
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Do you have a tween or a daughter who is hitting double digits soon? This episode will be music to your ears thanks to Amy Weatherly. With the help of her friend, Jess Johnston, Amy founded the online community, Sister I Am With You, that has 1M+ followers. Their book, I’ll Be There (But I’ll Be Wearing Sweatpants)hit shelves January 2021 and they're back with another book - this time geared for girls 8-12.
In this episode, we chat -
- the value of female friendship - for moms and tweens
- the 4 different levels of friends (to help your daughter better navigate tricky friendships)
- Why it's ok that every friend isn't on the same level
- The courage to share your friendship and your gifts
- Why rejection is sometimes ok (for all of us!)
I’ll Be There (And Let’s Make Friendship Bracelets): A Girl’s Guide to Making and Keeping Real-Life Friendshipsis out now and available wherever books are sold!
Episode Referenced:
Ep. 18 - 14 Talks by Age 14 with Michelle Icard
Connect with Amy
Instagram // Website // Sister I Am With You
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
What does every mom want? More time. Well, I'm not sure I can give you that - but I can absolutely provide some great time saving tips and hacks for you courtesy of today's guest, Crystal Paine. She is the founder of MoneySavingMom.com, host of The Crystal Paine Show podcast, and a New York Times bestselling author.
In today's episode, we chat:
- How a 25-year mindset changes everything
- Crystal's Four-Step System to feeling less frazzled, having more breathing room, finding time to invest in important things, and discovering more joy
- How to prioritize what to do next
- Crystal's "Time-Blocked To-Do List" - and how it's the antidote to distraction
- A look at Crystal's Morning Routine (Spoiler Alert: It starts the night before)
- ...and what to do if this all sounds overwhelming! (Yup, she's got a hack for that too.)
Her new book, The Time-Saving Mom: How to Juggle a Lot, Enjoy Your Life, and Accomplish What Matters Most, comes out on March 7, 2023 and is available wherever books are sold. Pre-order today!
Connect with Crystal:
Website: https://crystalpaine.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themoneysavingmom/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoneySavingMom Twitter: https://twitter.com/moneysavingmom
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/msmblog/
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Kelly Heath talks to us today about the importance of building a circle of influence around our teens. Additionally, she shares ways to discern who might be a strong mentor for your kid, the many roles a mentor can take, and how to spot red flags. If you've got a teen you love in your life - this one's for you!
We chat:
- Using discernment to facilitate important mentor relationships for your teen
- The many roles of a mentor - from encourager to truth-seeker and so much more
- The wisdom of praying about who might be able to step into a hard space for your kid and provide guidance
- How the broader your circle is the more opportunities you'll experience to find your teen a mentor
- How to spot red flags
...and
- How teens can get the most from their mentors!
Connect with Kelly:Website // Instagram // Facebook
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Buckle up, Mama. We have an incredible episode for you. Episode 67 brings you an emotional and heart-warming conversation with Jeannine Keim. We are honored to share her story of grace, redemption, and placing a beautiful baby for adoption long ago. In our conversation, she reflects on the outcomes of her decisions, how God is always present, and how shame distorts everything. She shares about navigating the unscripted and moving into the reckless love of God - it's SO remarkable. She also shares how one Facebook message changes everything.
On this episode, we chat:
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Seeing God's hand at work, even in crisis
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What it's like to place a baby for adoption at the hospital
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The deepest and darkest moments in our lives - why we should share with our trusted tribe
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Shedding the misconceptions around building relationships between birth families + adoptive families
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...and a poignant reminder that life isn't perfect no matter what - everybody has a story
You will be so moved by Jeannine's bravery in sharing her story. Listen and share with someone who needs some faith and encouragement today.
Connect with Jeannine:
Email // Facebook
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Foster Care Encouragement + so much more. Our guest on Episode 66 is Jamie Finn of Foster the Family blog and book (and other valuable resources too.) We talk about the ins and outs of foster care - and how to be a friend to someone in this important calling.
In this episode, we chat:
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Preparing people for the realities of foster care and encouraging them in this journey
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Ways to build trust with families and kids in the foster care network
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How "trauma-informed care" can help inform your journey with foster kids
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Why "All or Nothing" is the wrong question when it comes to foster care
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...and how to show up well for a foster care parent in your church or community.
ALSO - Are you a foster or adoptive mama looking to grow your knowledge and meet some amazing women? Come to the Filled Retreat for foster and adoptive moms in Lancaster, PA - February 3-5, 2022! Use my code: Susannah10 for $10 off registration. Learn more here.
Connect with Jamie:
Foster the Family // Jamie on Insta // Foster the Family Book on Insta // Foster the Family Book
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
Audio: bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Brittany Salmon, our guest on episode 65, is the author of "It Takes More Than Love," which shares her own family’s story of transracial adoption and offers a biblically-based guide for others following the same path. Her book confronts issues of racism, explores heritage, and highlights the importance of representation. AND she does this in a non-judgemental, grace-filled way that any potential or current adoptive or foster parent can really learn from and grow.
In episode 65, we chat -
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Shedding the shame as an adoptive parent and instead using conviction for a catalyst to make changes
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How to be a "bridge builder" for our kids - so they can develop a healthy racial identity
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"Windows and Mirrors" - and how this concept can help serve your adopted/foster kids and family
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Why Representation Matters - and how to start to cultivating valuable items, practices, and traditions for your family
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Ways to intentionally seek out a multicultural life
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How to support a friend who has adopted transculturally
Listen in and let us know what you think of this episode. We'd love your review on Apple or Spotify or Amazon.
Connect with Brittany:Instagram // Twitter // Website // It Takes More Than Love: A Christian Guide to Navigating the Complexities of Cross-Cultural Adoption, book
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Want 2 extra hours a day? Sandy Cooper says she can give it to you.
In this episode, Sandy Cooper, author of "The Scoop On Balance" blog and host of "The Balanced Momcast," encourages moms to get off social media. She's got great research, loads of data, and plenty to share from her own journey to implore moms to spend more time off of social media.
For this episode, we talk all about the addictive nature of social media, how to step away, and compelling reasons why you should (read: to fight depression, regain your time, rewire your brain to focus better, and so much more). She's even hosting a 7-Day Challenge called Make Social Media Small that starts on November 1st where you'll receive daily encouragement via email. Listen in to learn more about why you may want to rethink your relationship with social media.
If you've ever been scrolling aimlessly or feel a yearning to turn your focus to other important things - this one's for you. Check out Sandy's blog and sign up for her 7-Day Make Social Media Small Challenge below.
Connect with Sandy:Website // Podcast // Make Social Media Small 7-Day Challenge // "Is it Time to Break Up with Social Media?" Quiz
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
The third installment of our Tech + Family Series brings you a fantastic interview with Anya Kamenetz, author of The Art of Screen Time (2018) and The Stolen Year (2022). Anya shares valuable insight on why we should be intentional about screen time and takes it one step further by taking a deep dive look at where our kids are post-covid from an educational perspective.
On episode 63, we chat:
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Why time isn't always the most important measurement when it comes to screens
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Why parents must pay attention to the connections between screens and **sleep
- Navigating the habits** that devices bring on - setting good ones and correcting potentially negative ones
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The very real social deficits brought on by Covid - and what we can do as parents
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How leadership failed some of our most vulnerable communities during the pandemic
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Better understanding our kids' mental health state post-pandemic
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Why parents should attend Board meetings!
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...and ultimately, why The Stolen Year is a account of resilience - for kids, families, and schools
Love this episode? Send me a message or let us know on Instagram. Share with your parent group today!
Connect with Anya:Website // Instagram // Twitter // NPR
Connect with Susannah:Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Dr. Devorah Heitner, author of Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World, is giving parents the tools to guide their kids through the online labyrinth that is so embedded in their everyday lives. Dr. Heitner’s work has appeared in the New York Times, the Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and CNN Opinion. You'll love her insight on how we can help kids navigate life online in ways that are edifying, healthy and fun.
In episode 62, we chat:
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Whether or not parents' worries about technology are warranted
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Why we should be "thoughtful," and not "alarmed" about kids + tech
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How to navigate tech milestones with good communication
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Why true screen wisdom is really about relationships
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How we can use our own mistakes to teach kids about good etiquette + behavior online
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And why mentoring is more fruitful than monitoring
Devorah also shared two great resources for families who want to learn more - links below for her Phonewise Boot Camp and 7 Day Family Tech Reset.
Connect with Devorah:Website // Twitter // Instagram // Phonewise Boot Camp (with promo code!) // 7 Day Family Tech Reset
Connect with Susannah:Instagram//Facebook//Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Season 3 is underway and I am so excited to introduce our first episode and first guest, Leticia Barr, Tech Savvy Mama! I had such a great time chatting with her and I know you'll enjoy the listen. We talked about all things digital safety including: creating family technology rules, intentionally considering our relationship with technology, modeling safe behaviors, teaching kids how to be kind online - AND tools you and your family can use to keep everyone safer. (These tech tools for families are amazing!)
Here are the articles mentioned in the podcast:
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6 Conversation About Digital Safety Every Family Should be Having
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7 Favorite Resources for Teaching Digital Safety to Kids
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How to Talk About Digital Wellbeing With Your Teens
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How Bark Lets You Monitor Your Child’s Smartphone Without Invading Their Privacy
It's a great way to kick off the season and I'm so excited to share it with you! Leave a review and tell us what your family does for technological safety.
Connect with Leticia:Website // Instagram // Facebook // Twitter
Connect with Susannah:Instagram//Facebook//Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
This August we are rebroadcasting some of our top episodes from Season 2. Enjoy this throwback episode with LB!
LB, Founder of The Wife Coach, wants you to shift your mindset from being "a married woman" to being "a wife" - and she's got all the details about how women can influence their marriage, common communication challenges she sees in her work, and how a solution-based approach can strengthen an entire family. One of our key topics in this episode is why women are the THERMOSTAT in their marriages! You'll love LB's energetic and passionate approach to married life - listen in and share with a friend today. Write a review and tell me about how you approach your marriage!
Connect with LB:
Instagram // Website
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
This August we are rebroadcasting some of our top episodes from Season 2. Enjoy this throwback episode with Jenessa W. Broderick!
Co-Parenting and Blended Family Life has been one of the most requested topics here on the podcast. I'm happily bringing on Jenessa W. Broderick to offer insight about co-parenting with an ex-spouse. Jenessa has had a successful corporate career for over a decade, is a wife, and mother to four boys ranging in ages from 12-3. She has also been my friend for over 15 years. She shares a son with an ex and is incredibly intentional about how their child is raised amidst two households. On this episode, we talk about communication, grace, scheduling, flexibility, and the idea of being accommodating with an ex-partner, even when you don't want to be. Listen, share, and tell us how you're managing.
Connect with Jenessa:
LinkedIn // Email: jenessabroderick@gmail.com
Connect with Susannah:
Susannah on Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
This August we are rebroadcasting some of our top episodes from Season 2. Enjoy this throwback episode with Darlynn Childress!
Darlynn brings over a decade of experience to moms who desire to stop yelling at their kids. She helps moms understand how feelings drive behavior and provides powerful, yet tangible ways moms can help dissipate bad behavior. We talk about why parents react the way they do, where to start, and how to build an emotional (but not loud) connection to kids' misbehavior. Listen, share, and tell me what you think!
Connect with Darlynn:
Calm Mama Website // Stop Yelling Free Masterclass // Darlynn on Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
This August we are rebroadcasting some of our top episodes from Season 2. Enjoy this throwback episode with Kristen Poppa!
Self care is important for the whole family. You want your kids to feel replenished and rested, and you want to pour from a full cup. Kristen Poppa is a professor at Eastern University and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience meeting with couples and families. We talk about the interconnectedness of all aspects of wellness and the practicalities of getting in that oh-so-important self care. Listen, share, and write a review.
Thanks for being here and investing in your family!
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Episode 56 brings you a candid and lively conversation about what it means to be a wife. LB, Founder of The Wife Coach, wants you to shift your mindset from being "a married woman" to being "a wife" - and she's got all the details about how women can influence their marriage, common communication challenges she sees in her work, and how a solution-based approach can strengthen an entire family.
We chat:
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The difference between being "A Married Woman" and "A Wife"
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Manipulation vs. Influence as a wife
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How communication, expectations, and resentment impact your marriage
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Solution-focused approaches to strengthening your relationship
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How your role as a wife influences your family life
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Why waiting on your husband might not be the best approach
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Why women are the THERMOSTAT in their marriages!
You'll love LB's energetic and passionate approach to married life - listen in and share with a friend today.
Connect with LB:
Instagram // Website
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
At the beginning of every summer, I always get excited about traveling with my family.
I'm aware this does NOT excite every parent out there - there are a gajilion bags to pack, gas is outrageous, snacks end up all over the car, sand (or mud) stays in the bottom of sacks and packs for months, and I could go on and on. Without question though, I've never regretted a trip with my family; I don't think you will either.
Please enjoy this rebroadcast of my interview with Travis and Heather Sherry - two of the most well-versed travelers I know.
Trav and Heather travel as much as they can, dabble in real estate, constantly upgrade their short-term rental game, are passionate about location independence and so much more. They're also parents - and well, that keeps things interesting. You'll love this episode, and hopefully, get inspired to plan a getaway with your kids this summer. Happy traveling, families!
Trav and Heather share their story of creating a life different than most, how traveling has changed them, how kids has changed everything, and why "slow travel" might be the perfect way to approach traveling with the whole gang. They've got great tips for families - just in time for travel season - listen in and let us know what you think!
Connect with Trav + Heather:
Extra Pack of Peanuts - Instagram + Podcast // Location Indie - Instagram + Podcast
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Episode 54 brings us an excellent conversation with Story Shares Founder, Louise Baigelman. Story Shares is a nonprofit organization, dedicated to dreaming up a new shelf in the global library filled with diverse, compelling, and accessible books to engage & inspire the millions of underrepresented teens and adults and transform them into readers.
Louise and Susannah chat:
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What prompted the founding of Story Shares
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The prevalence of illiteracy in the United States and why reading changes lives
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Why diverse representation is so important in an endeavor such as this
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How Story Shares books can transform your home, your school, or your public library
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What it means to "scaffold" books for our kids
...and we end on a high note - success stories!
I love when I meet people who are so passionate about helping kids, and Louise is definitely one of those people. Enjoy this episode and learn more about her work helping families and communities at storyshares.org.
Connect with Louise + Story Shares:
Website // Facebook
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Episode 53 brings a whole lot of insight for parents - thanks to the great information shared by Dr. Carrie Jackson. Even if you aren't managing ADHD in your own home - this is a great episode for every parent out there. The more we understand about the kids in our neighborhoods and communities - the more compassionate we all become - and the better we can show up for our friends and neighbors!
In this episode Susannah and Carrie discuss:
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Why parenting kids with ADHD is a marathon, and not a sprint
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Common missteps made when trying to parents ADHD kids
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Why positive reinforcement and praise are SO powerful for an ADHD-diagnosed kid
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The differences between hovering and scaffolding - and how it can help you parent a child with ADHD
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How to support a friend whose child has an ADHD diagnosis
Link to episode #12 (referenced in this conversation) - Helping the Special Needs Family You Love, Julie Falcone
Connect with Carrie Jackson, PhD:
Instagram // Website
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Spring is here. Let's switch up our 5 to 8 shift family fun. In today's episode - the tables are turned and Susannah is the interviewee. Thanks to Courtney Florey over at Declutter and Dwell for allowing us to share this interview with you guys where Susannah shares 5 ways to maximize your 5 to 8 shift this Spring.
All of these ideas are simple, inexpensive, and just take a little mama magic. We hope you enjoy this episode and think about trying an idea or two with your favorite little people. If you do, let us know on Instagram over at @susannah.mcmonagle by tagging us in your posts and stories. Don't forget to add dirt!
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
No matter how much we want to stick our head in the sand, the truth is that families need a plan when it comes to technology. I give you - Andrea Davis, founder of Better Screen Time. Andrea wants parents to worry about tech less and connect with our kids more. She takes a "slow tech, relationship-first approach," and you are going to love her insight.
On episode 51, we chat:
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Why it's important to set screen time boundaries
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Thinking intentionally about WHERE tech is used, HOW tech is used, and WHEN
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Doing the work to model good screen time behaviors
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The mental health battle our young teens are likely to experience with social media before they are ready
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How to know when your kid is ready for their own device
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What age should a child get a phone
and...
- Andrea's 4 Phone Process that she recommends to parents she works with
Honestly, I'm biased but I think every parent out there should give this one a listen. Tech is only getting bigger and the sooner we are having conversations with our kids - the better!
Connect with Andrea, Better Screen Time:
Website // Instagram // Creating a Tech Healthy Family (Book on Amazon)
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Some stories take a lot of courage and vulnerability to share. Stories like Chelsea Patterson Sobolik's. When I began to read the pages of Chelsea's book, I was so moved by her words, by the beautiful way she shares about brokeness and shattered dreams in a fallen world. This raw and touching conversation uncovers what it's like navigating childlessness in a world full of children.
In episode 50 (!!!), Chelsea and I disuss:
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How Chelsea's world was turned upside down in college, detouring, in a very big way, her motherhood dreams
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What it can feel like to suffer in silence and why every woman needs a trusted tribe
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The invisible shame many women traversing childlessness and infertility must work through
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How the church can do bettter and why they should
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What to do if you are a friend to someone in a hard infertility season or navigating childlessness
This episode strikes an entirely different cord - and I hope you listen and share and encourage anyone you know dealing with the weight of childlessness. The burden is too heavy to carry alone.
Connect with Chelsea Patterson Sobolik
Website // Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
It's not everyday you get to talk to a cucumber. AND one of your favorite children's authors all in the same episode! Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales and voice of Larry the Cucumber, and Amy Parker, beloved children's book author and podcast host, join me to talk about the work they are doing to help kids build their faith.
In this episode, we chat:
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why reading with your kid is more than just reading
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the importance of teaching your kids about God's love from a young age
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what's changed about the children's Bible reading experience since they were kids
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How 'The Bible for Me' helps kids understand God's love on a level they'll understand
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Why they are so passionate about creating content for little learners
Mike and Amy are fun and down to earth - if you want some motivation and encouargement as you seek to be intentional in building your children's faith - this one is for you.
Connect with Amy
Website // Instagram
Connect with Mike
Website // Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Loved my conversation with Courtney Florey! She's a decluttering coach out to help busy moms clear the clutter in their homes and minds. She helps you think about where to start and how to get your families on board. In episode 48, Susannah and Courtney chat: - how decluttering brings clarity - why declutering doesn’t need to be rigid - how to lead by example - ways that decluttering can help bolster your family values - what clutter is really costing you - where to start and some quick wins If you're up for some Spring cleaning, want to be more intentional with your space, or need to wrangle in some clutter - this one's for you!
Connect with Courtney:
Website // Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
With one of the most interesting careers - from running drill rigs to Harvard to NYC public education to raising capitol for her app for kids, Stephanie Dua shares some remarkable insight about how communities are often failing our earliest learners. What I love most about our conversation is that Stephanie gives us a "behind the scenes" look at how we got here - and the science and data is absolutely FASCINATING.
In episode 47, Susannah and Stephanie chat:
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How big a role parents actually play in early education
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Why it is so important to read with your child - especially your boys
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What she learned as CEO of the NYC Department of Education Fund for Public Schools
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What it means that 98% of education funding is for children 5 and up while 85% of the brain develops before age 5
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Where moms can start if they want to make a change to their kids' early learning experience NOW
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Lessons Stephanie has learned being both a mom and a professional and showing up as her "whole self"
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How her early learning app, Homer, can jumpstart your kid
If you want to be intentional about helping your kids succeed in math and reading and so much more - you've gotta listen in and share with a friend.
Learn more about Homer here - - free 30 day trial.
Connect with Stephanie and Homer
Website // Homer app // Stephanie on Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Kimball Lewis, CEO, Empowering Parents, chats with us today about what parents can do to deal with intense behavior problems and why a "good enough parent" is good enough!
On episode 46, we discuss:
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Why kids act out
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Moving beyond the mom guilt
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Why we shouldn't wait for our kids to be motivated to change
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How parents might be underestimating their kids
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Why tough kids are not bad kids
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and the value of holding your kids responsible!
This episode is packed with great advice and you will love Kimball's insight and tips. Check out even more on EmpoweringParents.com and share with a friend today.
Conenct with Kimball and Empowering Parents:
Facebook // Instagram // EP Website // Total Transformation Parenting Program
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Episode 45 brings you an excellent conversation about how to stay on track with your health. Amber Lia, author of Food Triggers, talks to us about how she finally made some health changes that lasted and how you can do the same. But, this conversation goes beyond physical health to a more holistic approach to stewarding our health well and living out the life we are called to lead.
In this episode, Amber and Susannah talk about:
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How to recognize a "food trigger"
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How to personally identify what is triggering us
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Sabotage (from others and ourselves)
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Negative Self Talk (and how to combat it)
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Ways to get your family on board
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Why there is no thought too small to take to God
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The value of taking every thought captive
There is so much goodness in this episode - physical health is just the beginning. Thanks for investing in you and your family this week!
Connect with Amber:Instagram // Food Triggers Book
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Darlynn brings over a decade of experience to moms who desire to stop yelling at their kids. She helps moms understand how feelings drive behavior and provides powerful, yet tangible ways moms can help dissipate bad behavior.
On episode 44, Darlynn and I talk about:
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Where to start when we are feeling overwhelmed with bad behavior
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How many of our parental reactions are really our fears about the future
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Operating out of a Feelings First Model
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Building up our Emotional Literacy as parents
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Being comfortable with our kids' discomfort
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...and how to be a Calm Mama!
Darlynn is a patient and wise teacher. No matter how old your kids - this one is not to be missed! Listen in and share with friend. Thanks for listening in and investing in you and your family!
Connect with Darlynn:
Calm Mama Website // Stop Yelling Free Masterclass // Darlynn on Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
January (or whenever you get to this episode!) is a great time to think about the year ahead. Many of us have dreams and goals, but Debranetta Howard, founder of Career Mom Community, helps us think about the steps it takes to make those dreams come to fruition. If you want to get your year started in the right direction - with intention and organization - this one's for you!
We talk:
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Planning for the week, month and year
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How to improve on consistency once a plan is in place
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How to use technology to your advantage
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Ways to get your kids on board with setting intentions for the week
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Purposeful multitasking
Listen in and share with a friend! Thanks for investing in you and your family today!
Connect with Debranetta Howard:
Blog // YouTube Channel // Facebook // Instagram
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Who better to talk about building future leaders than two leadership experts who have worked with thousands of corporate professionals across the country - meet Molly D. Shepard and Peter J. Dean. Molly founded The Leader's Edge in 2001 to help address the limited representation of women in the highest ranks of American businesses, and Peter, Wharton lecturer turned executive coach, has authored several books and runs the men's coaching division, Leaders By Design.
On episode 42, we discuss:
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the role of early scripts
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how corporations are embracing mothers (or not)
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empathy
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ways to teach your kids to become leaders at a young age
Check out their new children's book, Little Leaders and Their Stories, and listen in today.
Connect with Molly & Peter:
The Leader's Edge/Leaders By Design LinkedIn // Molly D. Shepard // Peter J. Dean // Little Leaders Children's Book
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
A recent State of Motherhood Survey by Motherly indicated that moms are drowning. We don't have the support we need - at home, at our workplaces, or in our communities - and we are burned out. Plain and simple. And the numbers of women saying they are burned out and the frequency which we are burned out goes up every year. Although probably not surprising to many, the statistics are staggering.
In episode 41, Susannah shares 4 ways to deal with burnout, how to cope in healthy and productive ways (because some stressors in life aren't going away!), and warns mamas about the negative side effects that will ensue if burnout is not dealt with. You can't bring your best self to your family, your work, or your community if stressors continue to derail your attitude and behavior.
Listen in and let us know what you think about today's episode - we'd love your review!
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Feeling the busyness of this season? Want to help your kids feel replenished and rested instead of stressed and overwhelmed? How bout you, Mama? Have you taken any opportunities to care for yourself so that you can pour from a full cup? If you find yourself contemplating questions like these lately, then you've come to the right place. Today's episode helps us think through self care - the what, the why, the how - with Kristen Poppa.
Kristen is a professor at Eastern University and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience meeting with couples and families. On episode 40, we discuss the varying stages of self care, how our physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual wellness are interconnected, how we can weave self care into our family lives and so. much. more. Whether you are combatting a season of "too much" or looking to get your family on track in 2022 - this one's for you!
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
That's right. You read that right. Today's guests are on a mission to get more married couples talking about how and why to prioritize a healthy sex life. The truth is - the world is already talking about sex everywhere you turn - why aren't we talking more about the value of a healthy sex life for our marriage and our family?
My guests on episode 39 are Gary Thomas and Debra Fileta. Thomas has authored over 20 book, with Sacred Marriage selling over 1 million copies. Debra is a a licensed professional counselor and couples therapist who writes and hosts the popular podcast, Love + Relationships. Together, they authored Married Sex: A Christian Couple's Guide to Reimagining Your Love Life, and we talk all the things.
We talk about communicating and managing sexpectations, how to make time for intimacy with small kids in the house, countering false narratives around sex, mutual pleasure, quickies, and so. much. more.
Listen in, share with a couple you care about, and grab their new book today.
Connect with Debra:
Instagram // Love + Relationships Podcast // Dating Blog
Connect with Gary:
Website // Facebook
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Co-Parenting and Blended Family Life has been one of the most requested topics here on the podcast. I am so thrilled to provide some insight on episode 38 with Jenessa Broderick. If you are looking for tangible tools you can take away to help prioritize your kids despite loss, divorce, or a myriad of other factors - you'll love this episode.
Jenessa has had a successful corporate career for over a decade, is a wife, and mother to four boys ranging in ages from 12-3. She has also been my friend for over 15 years. In my humble opinion, there is no better insight about co-parenting with an ex-spouse than what she brings to this episode. She is wildly intentional and the biggest beneficiary is her son who she shares with her ex. We talk about how divorce forces you to grapple with "forfeit" and "sacrifice" and how the road can be lonely and difficult. We talk about communication, grace, scheduling, flexibility and the idea of being accommodating with an ex-partner even when you don't want to be.
If you don't find yourself in a blended family situation - there is a lot here on how to be a friend to someone who is in transition, parenting solo, or navigating a new relationship. Listen and share with a friend today!
Connect with Jenessa:
LinkedIn // Email: jenessabroderick@gmail.com
Connect with Susannah:
Susannah on Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Have you ever found it difficult to combat the idea that the things you do at home are not as important as the things you accomplish elsewhere? Ever feel like you're slogging your way through life - taking on one task after the next without feeling fulfilled? What would it look like to thrive in motherhood rather than simply surviving motherhood?
Today's episode is a Mom Chat. Just two moms discussing these questions often brought on by motherhood - and we invite you into our conversation. Grab your coffee, tea, or wine and join us!
My guest on episode 37 is Erica Ligenza, the creator behind Coming Up Roses. She is a Philadelphia-based blogger and podcaster, wife to Jamie, mama to Olivia, wine-and-cheese enthusiast and published book author. In today's episode we talk about thriving in motherhood, reframing the way we view our work at home, and how to cope if you are a recovering perfectionist. Erica brings a huge dose of energy, fun, and candor to the podcast providing mamas some sound encouragement. If you've ever felt defeated or discouraged in your motherhood journey - this one's for you.
Connect with Erica
Blog // Instagram // Facebook // Thrive Podcast // Book
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
My guest on episode 36 is Judge Roy Sparkman, a retired Texas Judge, former school board attorney, a grandfather, dad, husband and follower of Christ who has spent the latter years of his career “accidentally” learning about the constitutional laws surrounding religious freedoms. As such, he is committed to empowering parents about the importance of teaching our children how to protect and defend religious liberties in America.
We discuss SO many provocative topics on today's episode around religious liberties - everything from the Fulton vs. Philadelphia case to advocating for more transparent school communication to clarifying the kinds of religious liberties kids do have at school to helping our kids dissect what is rhetoric and what is law. This is one of the most thought provoking episodes of Season 2 and it will leave you with a lot to chew on as a parent. You don't want to miss it.
Judge Sparkman's new fiction book: A Pastor's Pit.
Connect with Judge Roy Sparkman:
Website
Connect with Susannah:
Susannah on Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Do y'all know Jamie Ivey yet?! Well, you should. She is one of the people who inspired me to get into podcasting! And, I just love her. She has a super popular podcast, The Happy Hour with Jamie Ivey (35 million downloads!), has written a few books, is a speaker, wife and mother of four teenagers.
On October 5th, she released a children's book, God Made You to Be You, and it is the sweetest story about Sammy the Cactus that you and your kids will love. Thus, in this episode we center our conversation around FAMILIES. We talk about the importance of prioritizing your spouse, teaching our kids that they are not the center of our universe (#sorrynotsorry), dating your spouse and why instilling self-worth into your kids is so valuable. Her book, geared toward the six and under crowd, relays the message that you are fabulous just the way God created you to be. Check out her new children's book - available now.
Connect with Jamie:
Jamie on Instagram // The Happy Hour Podcast // God Made You to Be You // Complement Book
Connect with Susannah:
Susannah on Instagram // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Adrianne Delgado, RD, LDN, our guest on episode 34, is a registered, licensed dietitian with over 15 years experience in out-patient nutrition care. Her passion includes helping her patients have a positive relationship with food, improving energy levels and empowering her clients to live their best life.
As a working mother of five children, Adrianne understands firsthand the challenges of balancing health and responsibilities. We discuss how to be a "proactive eater" rather than a "reactive eater," how planning ahead can lead to increased energy, and why it's so important to model self care (read: prioritizing health and wellness) for our kids. If you are looking for some tips to boost the overall wellness of your family - start here with Adrianne of Bodymetrix Health!
Connect with Adrianne:
Website // Instagram // Nourish Eat Repeat Podcast and Book
Connect with Susannah:
Instagram: Susannah // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Rachel Van Kluyve, our guest on ep. 33, wears a lot of hats. She is mostly known for her great DIY tips on a budget, but she is also a podcaster, an author, a homeschool teacher - and a mother of three. She has carved out this beautiful little space on the internet, Crate & Cottage, that has attracted thousands of loyal fans and offers her community ways to be more intentional about creating a home they love.
Rachel brings a good dose of encouragement to open up Season 2. (Who doesn't need a little encouragement?!) We discuss everything from how toxic thoughts can steal your dreams to the slippery slope of comparison to ways you can make your home a more inviting and functional space. She encourages women to let go of fear and chase their dreams - and she does this all with grace and humility. Rachel's words are just the encouragement you didn't know you needed.
Connect with Rachel
Instagram: Crate & Cottage // Podcast // Website
Connect with Susannah
Instagram: Susannah // Facebook // Website // Instagram: The 5 to 8 Shift
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
On this episode, Michelle and Susannah talk so many things related to tween life, parenting the young teen crowd, and navigating the tumultuous time - otherwise known as middle school. Specifically, Michelle shares what role risk plays in the brain of an early adolescent and what parents should understand about the power of reputation in middle school.
Michelle Icard is a speaker, author, and educator who helps kids, parents, and teachers navigate the complicated social world of early adolescence. Her latest book, Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen (Harmony/Random House 2021), guides readers through the fourteen essential conversations parents need to have with their kids before they start high school.
Enjoy this rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
MichelleIcard.com
14 Talks by Age 14
Connect with Michelle: Instagram
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Megan and I go way back - 20 years back! - and she has no problem encouraging young women to pursue their careers while telling it like it is. In this episode, Megan, VP, In-Store Marketing and Merchandise Presentation, Big Lots, shares some insight on what it's like to be female in Corporate America, how to juggle the demands of a career and a family, and lessons learned through over a decade of honing her craft.
We spend the second half of the interview talking about some of the mental health challenges Megan has faced in a very real and present way. In hopes to continue to break the stigma around mental health, Megan discusses how eventually she couldn't ignore her mental health any longer, what she did to find help, and imparts wisdom on how to be a friend to someone who might be trending in a worrisome direction.
Enjoy this rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Big Lots
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
On Ep. 30, Laura and Susannah chat all things marriage. Solid relationships don't just appear - they are nurtured, cultivated, and developed with intention; marriage is no exception. Laura even makes the case for why couples should have a marital mission statement. (Spoiler alert: You're gonna want one too after listening!) Laura is down to earth, funny, and full of great insight for couples. We chat boundaries, consistency, and making time for your spouse. We also talk about the impact of strong marriages on family life - and how a happy marriage is a solid building block for a happy family.
Laura Gethers is a wife, mother, conflict resolution expert, author, speaker, and founder of Love Harder Marriage Coaching. Laura equips couples with the tools they need to strengthen their marriage.
Enjoy this rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1. Season 2 out this September!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Laura Gethers: Instagram
Love Harder Marriage Coaching
Your Marriage is Worth Fighting For, Book (on Amazon)
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Crystal Paine, founder of the wildly popular MoneySavingMom.com, host of "The Crystal Paine Show" podcast, New York Times bestselling author, occasional Foster Mom, and Mama to 4 bio kids is our guest today. Crystal's new book, Love-Centered Parenting: The No Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids, is her first parenting book and we are thrilled to have her share some insight on the journey of parenting in this episode.
You will find Crystal’s honesty, conversational style, and tried-and-true methods to be balm to your weary soul. At a time when parents are more fragile than ever, this message offers hope, freedom, and rest for the discouraged. Crystal talks about the day she found out her kid was a bully, leading with humility, and why letting go of what others think is so powerful as a parent.
We hope you enjoy this rebroadcast of one of our most popular episodes from Season 1.
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Kelly Raudenbush; She is a Mama of 4 and Cofounder/Director, The Sparrow Fund, a nonprofit organization supporting families in adoption as well as those who care for vulnerable children. As an adoptive mom herself, Kelly talks about the importance of building attachment with your child in a conversation entitled, "The First 6 Months Together." There are so many resources available for those looking to adopt, but what about once you arrive home with your child? Now what? Those first 6 months together are crucial in setting a strong foundation for your family and Kelly shares some great ways to make them count.
Kelly and Susannah discuss why building attachment with your child is so vital, how and when to share your child's story with others, and the value of talking with your child about their story. This is such a great conversation for anyone who has adopted or is thinking of adopting.
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
If you are a parent in 2021 then you already know that managing what your kids watch and how much they watch is a big challenge. Questions abound, such as: What are some ways parents can set up good habits for the 5 and under crowd? Why should we care about limiting screen time, (i.e., why does screen consumption matter?) What role do parents play in appropriately acclimating kids to internet usage? What's the advantage to referring to devices as "family devices?" How does extended screen time impact language development in toddlers? How can planning ahead help with unintentional extended screen time?
All this and more answered in this episode - specifically geared toward families with toddlers and/or preschoolers.
And on that note - this is the last episode of Season 1. What a joy and privilege this podcast is - thank you for being here, for investing in your parenting, for investing in your family, and for investing in yourself over the past several months! This community is so encouraging - y'all are the best! We'll be back with new guests, new content, and a new season later this summer.
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community: Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift: Website
The 5 to 8 Shift: Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Netflix gets a lot of flack for being a time-sucking black hole, but the truth is - they have a boatload of incredible documentaries. Really! They even have some documentaries that can help with your parenting.
On today's episode, our host, Susannah, shares three documentaries every parent should watch. One documentary has to do with the science behind the importance of loving relationships in the early years, one has to do with empathy and courage, and the last one has to do with a small dilemma, otherwise known as social media. But, you'll have to listen in to get all the details.
Season 1 coming to an end this June - but more goodness to come this Fall on Season 2!
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Dr. Ann-Louise T. Lockhart, PsyD, ABPP, a pediatric psychologist and parent coach with over 15 years experience in working with families and parents. She is the President/Owner of A New Day Pediatric Psychology in San Antonio, TX. In addition to being a wife and a mom, she's also very good at making reels on Instagram. (You should follow her.)
This conversation is PACKED with great intel for parents. Susannah and Dr. Lockhart discuss "parent regulation" or "co-regulation" - a concept centered on the significance of managing your own emotions as a parent and then helping your kid do the same. If you've ever wondered why you yelled at your kid yesterday for no apparent reason (who hasn't?!), Dr. Lockhart helps us work through recognizing a triggering event, better understanding developmental stages, and reminding us that parenting is hard work - as most worthwhile things are.
Dr. Lockhart's insight is a 45-minute incredible investment into your parenthood journey this week - you'll walk away with some great tools, some tips, and a whole lot of hope!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Website: www.anewdaysa.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.annlouise.lockhart/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFQ6vJ7rhl_tos1_udGKVQA
Courses: https://coursecraft.net/users/dbZx
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
We are thrilled to have Travis and Heather Sherry as our guests on Episode 24. If you are feeling cooped up, uninspired, in need of deep renewal, or ready to experience the wonder of a new scene - then this episode is for you.
Travis and Heather are creators of Extra Pack of Peanuts and Location Indie - two unique businesses that help people get over the two biggest hurdles to traveling and experiencing the gorgeous world we live in - time and money. (We also talk about the third reason... KIDS!) They've been featured in The New York Times, USA Today, and Huff Post, to name a few. Trav and Heather share their story of creating a life different than most, how traveling has changed them, how kids has changed everything, and why "slow travel" might be the perfect way to approach traveling with the whole gang. They've got great tips for families - just in time for travel season - listen in and let us know what you think!
Fantastic Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Extra Pack of Peanuts - Website and Podcast
Extra Pack of Peanuts on Instagram
Location Indie - Website and Podcast
Location Indie on Instagram
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
It's Mother's Day Weekend - so who better to encourage than Moms themselves?
This episode is two-fold - first up is a note of appreciation to all the Moms out there doing the work day in and day out - showing up well for their families - despite everything thrown their way. I am so proud of all of you - and in case no one told you this week - you rock!
The second half of the episode is for all the Mamas in Waiting, which can be an excruciatingly hard place to be. Susannah offers encouragement from a small band of incredible women - who have been there, who have been in your shoes, who understand the toll of a journey such as this - to lift up those of you on a journey you never wanted to go on. Whether you are on an infertility journey, waiting for an adoption placement, or wondering what the heck is going on - this one's for you!
We hope you listen and feel encouraged - and feel less alone. As Susannah shares in this podcast episode - "If your goal is to become a mom than you will be – somehow, some way it will happen for you and you’ll look back on the journey and smile."
Happy Mother's Day to all the Mamas, and especially the Mothers in Waiting.
So Many Good Resources:
Episode 18: Michelle Icard, 14 Talks by Age 14
Michelle Icard on Instagram
Episode 9: Kandace Lecocq, International Adoption 101
Kandace Lecocq on Instagram
Podcast: Talking to Teens: Expert Tips for Parenting Teenagers
Podcast: Mighty Parenting | Raising Teens | Parenting Young Adults
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Our guests on Episode 22 are Becky Thompson, and Dr. Mark R. Pitts, the father/daughter duo behind the Midnight Dad online community, that encourages fathers with short, powerful prayers every night at Midnight. Modeled off the runaway success of Midnight Mom, which has over 1.3 million followers, Midnight Dad meets fathers where they are and assures them that they are exactly who God chose as ‘dad’ for their family.
In this episode, Susannah chats with Becky and Mark about ways to encourage the Dads you love in your life, how fatherhood looks different than it did 30 years ago, and some of the challenges men and fathers are struggling with today. Their words are encouraging, their conviction is moving, and although they don't have all the answers - they can point you in the right direction. And seriously, how fun is it that these two are a father/daughter duo?! Their message is not heavy or shaming - it's full of light, life, and love. You'll leave feeling encouraged and/or with a desire to encourage your spouse on this crazy road we call parenthood.
Their new book, Midnight Dad Devotional, comes out April 27th - available wherever books are sold.
Sweet Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Midnight Dad Devotional: 100 Devotionals to Connect Dads Just Like You to the Father
Midnight Dad Community
Midnight Mom Community
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Our guest on Episode 21 is Pamelyn Rocco, who is on a mission to instill gratitude into families all across the country. (We agree - it's a great idea!) Pamelyn has been a party stylist for 20 years, is a girl mama x 2, an avid Instagrammer at @houseofbashery, and her first book, Gratitude the Great, comes out May 4, 2021.
In this episode, Pamelyn shares how gratitude has changed her life, why learning about gratitude and it's many benefits at a young age are so important, and provides ways for families to incorporate gratitude into their lives and routines. In fact, she wrote a children's book about this very topic called, Gratitude the Great. We think it'd be a great addition to any family library! Available wherever books are sold.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Connect with Pamelyn, Instagram
Gratitude the Great, Parnassus Books
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Heather Chauvin, leadership coach, podcaster, wife, mother, and author. Her first book, Dying to Be a Good Mother, chronicles her journey into motherhood with honesty, humor, and strength. Her book is part memoir and part personal development, giving you access to her powerful story of beating stage 4 cancer while guiding you to be reflective about how better understanding your kid might start with prioritizing yourself.
In this episode, Susannah and Heather discuss building sustainable micro-habits, the impact of re-learning how to live after Heather traversed the difficult road of cancer treatment and recovery, and overcoming many of the excuses that moms make when it comes to prioritizing their own health, time, and dreams. This is a great conversation that will implore you to "stop dying to be a good mother, and start living the life you deserve."
Resources Mentioned:
Mom Is In Control, Heather's Podcast
Dying to Be a Good Mother, Book
Connect with Heather: Instagram
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
We did something a little different for this episode - and we really like the way it turned out! Instead of interviewing a parent with a great story or some valuable tips for parenthood - we decided to look at the other side of the equation. We asked five young adults to share their perspectives on their parents, family life, technology, and so much more.
In this episode, Susannah interviews five of her students from Eastern University, including: Claudia Glover, Morgan Pierce, Darryl MacKey, Stephen Sattanino, and Milan Sharma. Parents will find this episode valuable because these young adults share some important pieces of the adolescent experience that may make parents pause and consider what they are being intentional about in their parenthood journey. We discuss things parents worry about that they don't need to, what role technology (namely social media) has played in their self identity, the impact of distracted parenting, and the best values instilled in them by their parents.
This conversation is both light-hearted and thought-provoking - reminding parents that most of us are doing much better than we think.
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Today's guest is Michelle Icard, speaker, author, and educator who helps kids, parents, and teachers navigate the complicated social world of early adolescence. Her latest book, Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen(Harmony/Random House 2021) guides readers through the fourteen essential conversations parents need to have with their kids before they start high school.
On this episode, Michelle and Susannah talk so many things related to middle school life, parenting the young teen crowd, and navigating the tumultuous time - otherwise known as middle school. Specifically, Michelle shares why she is so passionate about middle schoolers, what role risk plays in the brain of an early adolescent, and what parents should understand about the power of reputation in middle school.
Instead of big, scary conversations - Michelle's work helps equip parents with conversation starters to get your kid talking that are down to earth and easy to implement. This episode is jam-packed with knowledge and goodness - you don't want to miss this one!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
MichelleIcard.com
14 Talks by Age 14
Connect with Michelle: Instagram
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The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
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Sharing 6 ways to (try to!) destress for busy and tired parents. If you are fighting the good fight and just feeling weary or warn down - I hope this episode encourages you in your parenthood journey. I hope you listen and feel confident in letting something go or adding in a new routine, habit, or activity that reduces your stress and brings you joy. Intentional living is the best there is - now go chase it, friend.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Episode 4 with Megan Mellquist
Episode 12 with Julie Falcone
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Crystal Paine, founder of the wildly popular MoneySavingMom.com, host of "The Crystal Paine Show" podcast, New York Times bestselling author, occasional Foster Mom, and Mama to 4 bio kids. Although Crystal has written a couple books, her new book, Love-Centered Parenting: The No Fail Guide to Launching Your Kids, is her first parenting book and we are thrilled to have her share some insight on the journey of parenting in this episode.
You will find Crystal’s honesty, conversational style, and tried-and-true methods to be balm to your weary soul. At a time when parents are more fragile than ever, this message offers hope, freedom, and rest for the discouraged. Crystal talks about the day she found out her kid was a bully, leading with humility, and why letting go of what others think is so powerful as a parent. If you've been in the trenches as a parent lately, this one's for you.
Cool Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Crystal Paine / Money Saving Mom on Instagram
Love-Centered Parenting Book
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Laura Gethers, wife, mother, conflict resolution expert, author, speaker, and founder of Love Harder Marriage Coaching. Laura equips couples with the tools they need to strengthen their marriage. She believes that every couple is capable of loving harder and wants to be in your corner encouraging you to do so.
On this episode, Laura and Susannah chat all things marriage. Solid relationships don't just appear - they are nurtured, cultivated, and developed with intention; marriage is no exception. Laura even makes the case for why couples should have a marital mission statement. (Spoiler alert: You're gonna want one too after listening to this episode!) Laura is down to earth, funny, and full of great insight for couples. What started as a gift for her sisters catapulted into an endeavor that has helped couples up and down the East Coast put their marriages first. We chat boundaries, consistency, and making time for your spouse. We also talk about the impact of strong marriages on family life - and how a happy marriage is the solid building block for a happy family.
You don't want to miss this one - it's such a great conversation. You'll leave feeling encouraged and inspired!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Laura Gethers: Instagram
Love Harder Marriage Coaching
Your Marriage is Worth Fighting For, Book (on Amazon)
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Nicole Cole, founder and creator of the Polished Playhouse, an online community where she gives parents practical tips and ideas for organizing their homes. Nicole has a background in education and infuses her experience in early learning into her advice, hacks, and activities she readily shares online and on her blog.
In this episode, Nicole shares with us some great tips for organizing a playroom so it's fun for the kids and less stressful for mom and dad. With a little bit of work, the whole family will enjoy a more intentional space for creating memories. We talk the best kinds of storage, toy rotations, how to deal with paper, paper, and more paper! Nicole has also launched the cutest book box collection - each box contains a book, 2-3 crafts/activities, and a product by a Black-owned business. Get on the list below to be one of the first to find out about the next book box drop.
If you have toys and little humans living in your home - this episode's for you. Let us know on Facebook or Instagram which tip you're implementing first!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Polished Playhouse on Instagram
Polished Playhouse
Polished Playhouse Amazon Storefront
Polished Playbox - Notification List
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Dr. Sarah Fiedler, Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist, who serves patients out of her practice, North Florida Naturopathic. Sarah, along with her husband, Teegan, has been helping patients reach their full potential through holistic wellness and a multi-dimensional approach to optimal health.
Dr. Fiedler shares some healthy swaps for busy moms on today's episode. These easy, accessible swaps can help busy parents make healthier choices for themselves and their families. These tips are down to earth and simple to incorporate into hectic schedules - and Dr. Fiedler does a great job giving context for each of her tips - essentially the "why" behind the swap.
If you are looking for simple ways to stay healthy in 2021 - this is a great place to start! Dr. Fiedler's advice is tangible, valuable, and accessible.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
North Florida Naturopathic
Connect with Dr. Sarah Fiedler: Instagram
Connect with NFN: Facebook
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Julie Falcone, author and mama raising four children diagnosed with a myriad of neurological disorders. She has spent the last fifteen years becoming an unofficial teacher, doctor, pharmacist, police officer, bouncer, therapist, scientist, psychiatrist, and insurance agent to advocate for her special needs children. Her goal is to help mothers raising children with invisible special needs feel seen and valued.
Julie shares her unexpected motherhood journey with humor, honesty, and humility. We talk about raising kids with invisible special needs, how to be a good friend to a parent of a special needs kid, and how to cope if you yourself are staring down a complicated neurological diagnosis for your kid. Although an episode like this sounds heavy - Julie is hilarious and her self-deprecating humor and light-hearted nature will encourage any parent out there in a hard season with their kid - or anyone stumped for ways to help a friend with a special needs child.
Even better - she recently wrote a book called, Dear Loved Ones, where she shares her experiences with ADHD and Autism diagnoses, reflects on things she wished she'd known when she and her family were in the thick of it, and provides encouragement for families walking this path or trying to support a friend who is. This episode will tug at your heartstrings and propel you to show up well for the special needs family in your community. You will leave feeling so encouraged!
Learn more about how to connect w Julie Falcone at the links below.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Dear Loved Ones (Available on Amazon)
Julie's Website
Connect with Julie: Facebook
Happy Mama Retreat
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
On today's episode, Susannah is sharing 10 ways that parents can prioritize and be more intentional about how they spend their 5 to 8 shift - those precious evening hours with your A Team. January is such a great opportunity to refocus, renew, and get into some healthy routines, and Susannah has a few ideas to help families make that happen.
We hope you'll listen and feel encouraged to prioritize your own 5 to 8 shift - it's the most important shift of the day! If you incorporate any of these ideas, let us know on Instagram - we love hearing from our listeners.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
The Common Rule, by Justin Earley
1000 Hours Outside: Instagram
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Manda Carpenter, Advocate, Foster Mama, Speaker, and Writer. Manda talks all about foster care on this episode - the beautiful, the broken, the investment, the commitment - you name it - she's speaking into it - and it's so valuable!
Manda shares how she knew she always wanted to foster, finding a partner who felt the same, and taking the leap to show up for kiddos in her community. And the best part - she developed three online courses to help those of you considering foster care, those of you who are rookies in the foster care world, and some more complex resources for seasoned members of the foster care community.
These courses are packed with valuable insight and practical resources at any stage in your foster care journey - and they're available right now on her website. Info below.
Learn more about how to connect w Manda and her Foster Care Courses at the links below.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
MandaCarpenter.com
Manda Carpenter's Foster Care Courses
Space: An Invitation to Create Sustainable Rhythms of Work, Play and Rest (Manda's Devotional)
Connect with Manda: Instagram
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Kandace Lecocq - host of the popular Adoption Hacks podcast and an adoptive mama to a wonderful little boy from South Korea. Kandace shares her story of coming into motherhood via international adoption and has some great advice for families beginning their international adoption journey.
Given Kandace's own international adoption experience and all that she's learned hosting guests on her podcast - I thought Kandace was the perfect guest to give us an "International Adoption 101" overview. It is so good, ya'll! She helps families think about the right agency, the right country, questions to ask an agency early on in the process, the importance of working with ethical professionals, dealing with grief, and so much more.
Kandace even shares her own story of pulling out of an international adoption 23 months in. We discuss the weight of waiting for adoptive families - and really any Mama out there who is waiting for her heart's desire. We discuss the brokenness of adoption and yet the immeasurable joy it brings to so many. This conversation is informative and hopeful, practical and full of inspiration - you don't want to miss it!
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Adoption Hacks Podcast
Before You Adopt, by Christa Jordan
Adoption Hacks - episode with Kandace and Husband, Anthony
Connect with Kandace: Instagram
Adoption Hacks: Instagram
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guests are Sisters Allison Hottinger and Lisa Kalberer, creators of The Giving Manger, a faith-based interactive family activity that encourages acts of kindness, focuses on the joy of giving, and highlights the real reason for Christmas: Jesus' birth! In this episode of the 5 to 8 shift, Allison and Lisa share their story of creating a tiny wooden manger - first made for family and friends - that grew into the widely loved product it is today.
These amazing mamas give us the fun backstory behind The Giving Manger, which started as a Kickstarter campaign! They tell us about building The Giving Manger, growing their business, and their passion to help families keep the focus on Jesus during the holiday season. Allison and Lisa are so fun and you will love hearing their story on this episode! And as a parent, you are going to love how the Giving Manger can transform your family throughout the holiday season by shifting the focus to giving rather than receiving.
As a family that owns and loves the Giving Manger - I can't recommend it enough! Here's how it works - pick a day and set out the tiny manger, whenever the kids do something kind for someone else - open a door for an elderly person, help clean up the playroom, hang up coats without being asked - they get to put a piece of hay in the manger. Each act of kindness = one piece of straw. The manger gets filled with hay until it's ready for Baby Jesus on Christmas Day - or any day you decide! Your family will love it as much as mine does. Check out their website for more info!
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
The Giving Manger (Get yours today!)
The Giving Manger: Instagram
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Courtney Kassner, Owner, Crew + Co, a company that designs one of a kind scripture memory cards for the whole family, along with stickers, Advent cards, and so much more. In this episode of the 5 to 8 shift, Courtney shares her story of taking a leap of faith to start Crew + Co and how the desire to spend more time with her family birthed this inspiring brand.
Not only does Courtney share her story of raising a family and building a business, but she has some amazing resources for families at Crew + Co. Her new Advent cards (available in brights or neutrals) are a great way to keep the focus of the Christmas season on what's really important - Jesus! (Still time to get yours before Christmastime is in full swing!! Links below for more info.) She also recently developed a devotion set for teen girls and has many products that can help families work through scripture and build their faith. Check out their website below to see all their worthwhile and beautiful resources.
Be sure to join our Facebook community below to discuss the episode with other listeners.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Crew + Co Website
Crew + Co: Advent Cards
Crew + Co Instagram
Ryan & Rose
Jesus Storybook Bible
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Sarah Weaver - a passionate foster care advocate, Mama to an ever-changing number of kids, and Development Coordinator, A Door of Hope. Sarah shares her story of coming into motherhood with candor and eloquence, taking a route she never saw coming.
Sarah tackles one of the toughest questions often asked of foster parents: "Well how do you do it? I could never give a child back." She also provides some advice for those considering stepping into the world of foster care. She challenges families to walk in faith, trust God's plan, and encourages people to be "His hands and His feet."
Sarah is also taking part in a Christmas program for foster families - providing toys, gift cards, and other items for families who are caring for foster kids over the Christmas holiday. It is inspiring, hopeful, and a worthy way to get involved this Christmas season! Learn more about how to connect w Sarah and Christmas for Fosters at the links below.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Christmas for Fosters
A Door of Hope
Liberty University
Connect with Sarah: Instagram - she's a great follow!!
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Kelly Raudenbush; She is a Mama of 4 and Cofounder/Director, The Sparrow Fund, a nonprofit organization supporting families in adoption as well as those who care for vulnerable children. As an adoptive mom herself, Kelly talks about the importance of building attachment with your child in a conversation entitled, "The First 6 Months Together." There are so many resources available for those looking to adopt, but what about once you arrive home with your child? Now what? Those first 6 months together are crucial in setting a strong foundation for your family and Kelly shares some great ways to make them count.
Kelly and Susannah discuss why building attachment with your child is so vital, how and when to share your child's story with others, and the value of talking with your child about their story. This is such a great conversation for anyone who has adopted or is thinking of adopting.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
The Sparrow Fund
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
In a year of complete upheaval, thankfulness might look a little different than usual. Let's be honest - 2020 has thrown families some serious curveballs! BUT, with 2 months left to go, there is still so much good to find in this weird and uncertain year and we challenge you to do just that.
In this 10 minute bonus episode with host, Susannah McMonagle, she shares 3 things she's thankful for - and it's not what you think! - and encourages you to find gratitude in unexpected places.
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Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is VP, In-Store Marketing and Merchandise Presentation, Big Lots, Megan Mellquist. Megan and I go way back - 20 years back! - and she has no problem encouraging young women to pursue their careers while telling it like it is. In this episode of the 5 to 8 shift, Megan shares some insight on what it's like to be female in Corporate America, how to juggle the demands of a career and a family, and lessons learned through over a decade of honing her craft. Any young female coming up the ranks will come away with plenty of encouragement (and a few great tips) to chase her dreams.
We spend the second half of the interview talking about some of the mental health challenges Megan has faced in a very real and present way. In hopes to continue to break the stigma around mental health, Megan discusses how eventually she couldn't ignore her mental health any longer, what she did to find help, and imparts wisdom on how to be a friend to someone who might be trending in a worrisome direction. This is such an important conversation - one we need to be having more with our neighbors, friends, and family members - and I am so proud of Megan for sharing her story.
Be sure to join our Facebook community below to discuss the episode with other listeners.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Big Lots
Nationwide Children's Hospital
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is Artistic Director and Owner of Feet First Dance and mama of two, Kelsey Brennan-Patrick. On this episode of the 5 to 8 shift, Kelsey shares her story of "being unlovable," grappling with how to pursue her dreams whilst figuring out how to be a new mom, and making peace with a dissolving marriage. This single mom picked up the pieces of her broken relationship and through that experience found a bold faith, a contagious energy, and is carving out a life she loves.
Kelsey's story will help you navigate coming out of a hard season, encourage you to give yourself grace, and provide rationale for opening up to your friends and family.
You will be so encouraged by Kelsey's story of faith, grit and tenacity. Be sure to join our Facebook community below to discuss the episode with other listeners.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Feet First Dance
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
Connect with Kelsey: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Today's guest is wife, mama, and regional director at Sylvan Learning, Elizabeth Clippinger. On this episode of the 5 to 8 shift, Elizabeth shares her story of parenting a child born with an incredibly rare genetic disorder. As an expecting mama ready to fly into motherhood with ease, her son's diagnosis sent her little family for a tailspin. Her story is one of perseverance and grit, learning to advocate for your kid, and cultivating a strong faith in hard seasons.
You will be so encouraged by Elizabeth's story. Be sure to join our Facebook community below to discuss the episode with other listeners.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
The Freeloader Child Carrier
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
If you are considering investing a few hours here each month--and I hope you do!--I thought an introduction and some context were in order. This solo episode shares with listeners who Susannah is, what the purpose of this podcast is, and most importantly, the "why" behind the podcast and the entire concept of the 5 to 8 shift.
If you're a parent - in any season - this is a great place to start. We hope you leave feeling encouraged.
We're rooting for you in your own 5 to 8 shift - it's your most important shift of the day.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode:
Daring Greatly, Brene Brown
Camden Yards
Connect with Us!
Connect with Susannah: Instagram
The 5 to 8 Shift Podcast Community on Facebook
The 5 to 8 Shift Website
The 5 to 8 Shift Instagram
Music: Bensound.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message
Welcome! Here's what you can expect on Season 1 of The 5 to 8 Shift with Susannah McMonagle. New episodes are released on the 7th, 17th, and 27th of every month.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/susannah-mcmonagle/message