FRAN HAUSER: The Power of Being "Nice"

The start of a new school year brings fresh opportunities—but it also brings packed calendars, shifting routines, earlier mornings, extracurriculars, homework, meal planning, and the mental load of keeping everyone on track. Join us for Back to School, Back to Balance: Creating Routines That Actually Work for Your Family, a practical conversation about preparing your entire family for a successful school year without burning out. We'll explore how to create sustainable routines, reduce household stress, support children's independence, and navigate the transition back to school with more confidence and less chaos. Moderated by Kanika Chadda Gupta, journalist, author, podcast host, and founder of That's Total Mom Sense, this conversation features Dana Haller, founder of The Juggle Economy, and Kelly Hubbell, Founder & CEO of Sage Haus. Together, we'll discuss: Creating routines that actually work (and last) Reducing the mental load of the school year Helping children become more independent Managing after-school schedules without overcommitting Supporting emotional transitions and easing back-to-school anxiety Practical ways to keep the whole family connected during busy seasons Whether you're sending your child to kindergarten or juggling multiple school schedules, you'll leave with realistic strategies to make the school year feel calmer, more organized, and far more manageable. What is Auggie? The most trusted community for parents to find answers. Inside the Auggie app, parents get stage-specific guidance, expert content, on-demand events, and a supportive network that reduces the mental load of figuring everything out alone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if being “nice” was actually your greatest strength? In this deeply personal and powerful episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with my dear friend Fran Hauser—bestselling author of The Myth of the Nice Girl, Embrace the Work, Love Your Career, and 20 Minutes is the New Hour, former President of Time Inc. Digital, investor, bookstore owner, and mother of two. From leading one of the largest digital media portfolios in the world to adopting her two sons and redefining success on her own terms, Fran shares the truth behind ambition, boundaries, and what it really means to “have it all.” We talk about: The misconception behind being “nice” at work How to advocate for yourself without losing your authenticity Why small pockets of time can create massive impact Her pivot from corporate leadership to author, investor, and community builder The emotional journey of motherhood through adoption This conversation is about power—with softness, intention, and clarity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if you never had to choose between style and comfort again?In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with Samantha Dong, Founder and CEO of Ally Shoes—the brand redefining what it means to wear heels. Designed by women, for women, Ally’s pain-free heels are engineered for real life: long days, busy schedules, and moments when you need to show up with confidence.We talk about: The problem with traditional heels—and why they hurt How Ally Shoes are designed with podiatrist-approved innovation Samantha’s entrepreneurial journey building a mission-driven brand The intersection of fashion, function, and female empowerment As a mom, speaker, and someone constantly on her feet, I share why Ally has become my go-to for feeling confident and comfortable on stage.If you’ve ever kicked off your heels halfway through an event… this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special AAPI Voices episode presented by Lexus, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with yoga teacher and mother of two, Thara Natalie. Best known for her soulful approach to fitness, Thara opens up about her multicultural upbringing, her evolution from performer to wellness warrior, and how she and husband Jay Sean are raising mindful kids in today’s fast-paced world. Recorded at her wellness studio in New Jersey, this heartfelt conversation includes a sound bath session and a rapid fire where Thara shares her favorite memories in the car and the rituals that keep her grounded. Don’t miss this deep dive into identity, intention, and inner peace. MEET MY GUEST: https://www.instagram.com/tharanatalie/?hl=en SPONSORS: ⁠⁠Lexus⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I sit down with admissions expert and author, Sara Harberson, to explore how parents can prepare kids for college at any stage. We discuss key strategies from her new book, Soundbite, on assembling a full proof college checklist, her take on the Varsity Blues scandal, financial aid, and guidance for underrepresented communities. Tune in for an insightful conversation that will help you support your child’s journey navigating higher education with confidence and authenticity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when one of the most powerful voices of our generation becomes a mother? In this intimate, unfiltered conversation, Grammy-winning artist Tori Kelly joins That’s Total Mom Sense to share how motherhood has transformed her identity, creativity, and purpose. From performing at the Knicks Championship Game to navigating the quiet, sacred moments of early motherhood, Tori opens up about matrescence, marriage, and what legacy truly means now. We talk about: The emotional shift from artist to mother How motherhood is reshaping her music and upcoming album Staying connected in marriage through life’s biggest transitions The pressure—and privilege—of evolving in the public eye Plus—don’t miss the moment Tori sings and joins Kanika in a nostalgic throwback impersonation segment you’ll want to replay. This episode is a masterclass in growth, grace, and finding your voice—again. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of That’s Total Mom Sense – Home Sweet Home Series, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with Jay Feingold, owner of PremierGarage of Northern New Jersey, to explore how transforming one overlooked space—the garage—can completely change the rhythm of your home. From cluttered chaos to streamlined systems, Jay shares expert-backed strategies for creating functional, beautiful storage solutions that actually work for busy families. We dive into the emotional side of organization, how it impacts parenting, and why your garage might be the missing piece to a calmer home.Whether you're drowning in sports gear, seasonal clutter, or just need a reset—this episode is your roadmap. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do recruiters actually look for—and how can you stand out in a world where AI is changing everything? In this powerful, no-BS conversation, Kanika Chadda Gupta sits down with elite recruiter Deepali Vyas to break down exactly how to build a personal brand that gets noticed—and hired. From helping moms re-enter the workforce, to guiding teens on building standout resumes, to showing you how to use AI as your advantage—not your competition—this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or unsure how to position yourself… this episode is your wake-up call. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if motherhood wasn’t always beautiful—and we finally said it out loud? In this bold, honest, and darkly funny episode of That’s Total Mom Sense, I sit down with actor, writer, and playwright Koel Purie Rinchet to talk about her provocative new play Mummy’s Dead, Long Live Mummy!—a satirical, unfiltered look at modern motherhood. From her global career across film, television, and theatre to creating one of the most talked-about plays about motherhood today, Koel opens up about identity, exhaustion, reinvention, and the silent sisterhood of mothers. We talk about:• The myth of the “perfect mother”• Why motherhood can feel isolating—even when universal• Turning personal truth into powerful storytelling• Her journey from actor to playwright• Taking her work to global stages like the Edinburgh Festival This is a conversation that will make you laugh, think, and feel seen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A husband-and-wife team is redefining kids’ bath time—with clean ingredients, sensory play, and serious intention. I met them at Mom 2.0, and as a fellow twin mom, this conversation hit home. This is not just “fun”—it’s smart parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices