At Home with Emily

Kelly McGowan is back with the plant advice we all need. Whether your track record with greenery is a little... crispy... or you're ready to ditch the fake tree in the corner, this episode is packed with simple, beginner-friendly ways to bring real plants into your home. From snake plants that thrive on neglect to indoor trees that quietly grow into stunners, Kelly shares her go-to recommendations, care tips, and why overwatering is your plant's worst enemy. Plus, Emily shares how a little greenery can go a long way in home design. If you're ready to become a proud “plant lady” (without the stress), this is your sign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scottish-born college soccer coach Ben Taylor brings a fresh, overseas perspective to youth sports in America, and it might just change the way you think about your kid’s team schedule. Emily and Ben talk about the big cultural differences between how kids grow up playing sports in the UK versus here in the States, why choosing the right coach matters way more than chasing elite leagues, and how to help your child stay in love with the game. Whether your kid is just kicking off their first season or you’re knee-deep in club sports, this is a conversation full of honesty, wisdom, and encouragement for sports parents everywhere.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She was a single mom working the 6 o’clock news… and still made it to bedtime stories and parent-teacher conferences. In this episode, Emily welcomes her dear friend Linda Simmons back to the podcast to talk honestly about the highs and lows of juggling motherhood and a demanding career. From newsroom deadlines to childcare emergencies and big life pivots, Linda shares what she’s learned about work-life balance and why being “just a mom” is actually everything. It’s a beautiful conversation about choosing your family, showing up when it matters most, and redefining success on your own terms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if just a few simple changes in your yard could actually help save butterflies, bees... and our food supply? In this episode of At Home with Emily, we’re chatting again with Kelly McGowan, a horticulture expert from the University of Missouri Extension, about how native plants can make a huge difference. Kelly shares easy, beginner-friendly ideas for swapping traditional landscaping with beautiful, purposeful plants that support pollinators and local wildlife. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or no clue where to begin, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to dig in and do a little good from your own backyard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all want the best for our kids... but when it comes to youth sports, the pressure to perform can sneak in fast. In this episode, Emily sits down with Jill Simmons from the Springfield-Greene County Park Board to talk about how we can create a healthier, happier sports experience for our kids. From sideline stress to the emotional car ride home, they unpack why so many children are quitting sports earlier than ever, and what we as parents, coaches, and supporters can do differently. Jill shares practical, heartfelt advice on teaching sportsmanship, building resilience, and letting our kids enjoy the game without all the pressure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Let’s be real, choosing paint for your home can feel totally overwhelming. What sheen do you use on trim? Is that white going to look blue? Where do you even start? In this episode, Emily chats with Alison Rosebrough from Seminole Decor Center, a family-run business that’s been helping people in the Ozarks get it right for over 50 years. They talk about how to confidently pick colors, avoid common mistakes, and why the finish matters just as much as the shade. Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or you’ve made a few “oops” choices before (we’ve all been there), this episode is packed with simple, smart tips to make your space feel just right.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever spotted weird little bags hanging off your bushes? Or found a swarm of shiny beetles chomping on your plants? In this episode of At Home with Emily, Emily welcomes Kelly McGowan from the University of Missouri Extension to break down the bugs we actually need to worry about... and the ones we don’t. From bagworms and Japanese beetles to those not-so-sweet Asian lady beetles in your house, Kelly shares practical, down-to-earth tips for keeping your yard healthy without going bug-bananas. You’ll even learn why woodpeckers might be trying to tell you something.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She was a trusted voice on your TV for over a decade, now she’s following a higher calling. In this episode of At Home with Emily, Emily sits down with Linda Simmons (formerly Linda Russell) to talk about her courageous leap from a 14-year career in TV news to a new season in Christian radio. Linda opens up about burnout, motherhood, and the surprising role Facebook played in her next step. Through it all, her story is a powerful reminder that when one door closes, God often opens a better one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You don’t have to fly across the world to create unforgettable family memories. This week on At Home with Emily, Emily chats with McKenzie Paquin of 417 Travel about dream-worthy destinations that are just a drive (or short cruise) away. From Disney magic and Galveston cruises to America’s breathtaking national parks (and even Springfield’s hidden gems) they cover it all. Whether you're planning big, bucket-list adventures or easy weekend escapes, you’ll get practical tips, must-know planning timelines, and a fresh reminder that the best trips don’t always require a passport. Perfect for parents who want more fun and less stress when they hit the road. 🚙See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planning a family trip can feel like a lot... especially when toddlers, time zones, and passport rules come into play. But what if it didn’t have to be overwhelming? In this episode of At Home with Emily, we’re talking with Travis Paquin from 417 Travel about the real behind-the-scenes of traveling with kids, from cruise ship magic to managing meltdowns in airports. Whether you’re dreaming of Maui, London, or even an African safari, this conversation is full of helpful hacks, honest advice, and inspiration for making travel fun again. Because every family deserves a trip they’ll never forget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.