Why Parenting Topics Become So Toxic Online + My Perimenopause Wake-Up Call

Thursday May 21 2026: Welcome back to The Mom Room! In today’s solo episode, I’m diving into one of the most misunderstood topics online: parenting “data.”After seeing endless debates and ignorant comments surrounding Tuesday's episode with Emily Oster, I wanted to explain what people actually mean when they reference “the data.” Spoiler alert: it’s not one magical study that tells parents how to raise their kids. I break down how research typically works, why the public gets flooded with misleading clickbait headlines from single studies, and how nuance completely disappears once parenting conversations hit the internet.I also talk about why certain parenting topics trigger such intense emotional reactions, and why I think so much of it is connected to identity, guilt, societal pressure, and the impossible standards placed on mothers.Then we switch gears into a very personal rant about perimenopause symptoms that completely blindsided me. Sensitive skin? Perioral dermatitis? Melasma? Apparently hormones can wreak havoc in ways I had absolutely no idea about. If you’ve been feeling like your body is suddenly doing strange things for no apparent reason… this conversation might make you feel a little less alone.As always, this episode is honest, unfiltered, educational, and sprinkled with a healthy amount of ranting. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Emily Oster, CEO of ParentData, mom of two, economics professor, author of Expecting Better, Crib Sheet, and The Family Firm, joins The Mom Room this week to discuss how data-driven parenting is needed in today's online world full of flashy headlines and anxious parents. As an economist focused on social policy, Emily dives into research around TTC, pregnancy, and parenting, and interprets studies through a thoughtful, nuanced lens. She shares with Renee her findings about breastfeeding, jumpstarting labor, screen time, extracurricular activities, bed rest, and more. If you're a parent trying to keep up with the ever-changing information online and find themselves googling at 2am "what are the effects of ____ on my child?" - this episode is for you!FOLLOW [email protected] YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Quince - Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/MOMROOM for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Wayfair - Get prepped for patio season for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.Little Spoon - Try Little Spoon Formula with their 2 can trial pack (Buy 1, Get 1 free - that’s $30 for 2 cans), which is great if you’re easing into the transition. That’s LittleSpoon.com/TRYFORMULATime4Learning - Curious if Time4Learning is right for your family? Visit time4learning.com to explore their curriculum and find the perfect plan for your student. You can get started with a monthly subscription to see just how much your kids enjoy learning on their own terms.BioOptimizers - If you’re ready to feel more rested, head to https://bioptimizers.com/momroom and use my exclusive code MOMROOM to get 15% off any order. Perelel - New customers can use code MOMROOM and get 20% off your first order at perelelhealth.com/momroom. Merit Beauty - Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.Skims - Shop Everyday Cotton, and all of my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/momroom #skimspartnerFOLLOW RENEE REINA  Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina  TikTok: @thereneereina  Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thursday May 14th, 2026: There’s a part of the mental load that no one really talks about… your own thoughts. The constant questioning. The nonstop noise. The invisible checklist running through your brain 24/7.In today’s solo episode, I talk about a bit of an epiphany I had recently: why am I working so much? Somewhere along the way, I slipped into full workaholic mode and started prioritizing productivity over the things I’m constantly stressed about “neglecting”, home cooked meals, organizing the house, quality time with family, maintaining friendships, slowing down, and actually enjoying my life.So this summer? I’m embracing a bare minimum summer. Doing what truly needs to get done and letting the rest go. Because I only get one summer where Milo is 7 years old, and honestly? This might be my favourite age yet. The BEST. I don’t want to miss it because I was too busy answering emails or chasing productivity for no reason.I also get into the exhausting mental gymnastics of motherhood and womanhood… the constant second guessing, guilt, overthinking, and pressure to optimize everything. Why does my brain work like this? Why does it feel like moms carry around so much unnecessary noise in our heads? And why do I know for a fact my husband is not spiraling over whether we’ve done enough reading practice this week?If your brain also feels like 47 tabs are open at all times, this episode is for you. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Therapist and mom, Mika Ross, joins Renee this week on The Mom Room for a relatable, honest, non-therapy babble talk about parenting and relationships. In working with couples, Mika has learned the most common types of issues that come up, especially when the couple has children. Mika and Renee discuss parenting a child with ADHD, standards for mothers vs. fathers, resentment, and co-managing parenting, especially in heterosexual relationships where gender roles often present themselves. Mika brings a wealth of knowledge and relatability to this conversation, and answers questions around relationship conflict, including intimacy issues, with real, tangible tools that anyone can take value from. Thank you Mika for joining us and if you enjoyed this conversation, check her out in the links below!FOLLOW MIKAIG: @mikaross.therapistMika's websiteTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Quince - Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/MOMROOM for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Wayfair - Get prepped for patio season for way less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.Little Spoon - Try Little Spoon Formula with their 2 can trial pack (Buy 1, Get 1 free - that’s $30 for 2 cans), which is great if you’re easing into the transition. That’s LittleSpoon.com/TRYFORMULATime4Learning - Curious if Time4Learning is right for your family? Visit time4learning.com to explore their curriculum and find the perfect plan for your student. You can get started with a monthly subscription to see just how much your kids enjoy learning on their own terms.BioOptimizers - If you’re ready to feel more rested, head to https://bioptimizers.com/momroom and use my exclusive code MOMROOM to get 15% off any order. Perelel - New customers can use code MOMROOM and get 20% off your first order at perelelhealth.com/momroom. Merit Beauty - Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.Skims - Shop Everyday Cotton, and all of my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/momroom #skimspartnerFOLLOW RENEE REINA  Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina  TikTok: @thereneereina  Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 7th 2026: Ever taken an imitation NyQuil thinking “how different could it really be?” Well… apparently VERY different. In today’s solo episode of The Mom Room, I recap the recent cold that absolutely took me out and the off-brand nighttime cold medicine that somehow managed to derail my entire night instead of helping me sleep. Turns out the non-medicinal ingredients matter more than I ever knew, and I have thoughts.I also share my honest review of Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. This review may ruffle a few feathers, but if you know me, you know I can’t fake enthusiasm for a book that didn’t land for me. Let’s discuss.Plus, I answer a few listener questions, including: what’s one small thing lately that has brought you an unexpected amount of joy? A simple question with surprisingly wholesome answers.A chaotic cold, questionable pharmaceuticals, controversial book opinions, and tiny joyful moments, a pretty accurate representation of life lately. Enjoy!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Dr. Jennifer Lincoln joins The Mom Room to discuss various topics from her new book The Birth Book. What is considered normal when giving birth? How do I make a birth plan? What is the difference between a midwife and OBGYN? Do I need to deliver while laying on my back if I have an epidural? There have been countless books written all about pregnancy, but there hasn't been one that talks all about labor and delivery from someone who actually does it for a living. Giving birth is an extremely heightened anxiety scenario where everything can feel overwhelming and out of control, but Dr. Lincoln wants to empower women to have autonomy over their body, stand firm in their choices, but also consider options just in case the initial plan gets redirected. If you're pregnant, about to deliver, or planning for the future, this episode will give you the awareness and preparedness you need so that you can stand up for yourself and your needs in the delivery room.FOLLOW DR. JENNIFER LINCOLNInstagram - @drjenniferlincolnCheck out her book The Birth BookTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Quince - Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/MOMROOM for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Wayfair - Way Day is THE sale to shop the best deals in home – we’re talking up to 80% OFF with fast and FREE shipping on everything! Head to Wayfair.com April 25th through the 27th to shop Way Day. Little Spoon - Try Little Spoon Formula with their 2 can trial pack (Buy 1, Get 1 free - that’s $30 for 2 cans), which is great if you’re easing into the transition. That’s LittleSpoon.com/TRYFORMULATime4Learning - Curious if Time4Learning is right for your family? Visit time4learning.com to explore their curriculum and find the perfect plan for your student. You can get started with a monthly subscription to see just how much your kids enjoy learning on their own terms.BioOptimizers - If you’re ready to feel more rested, head to https://bioptimizers.com/momroom and use my exclusive code MOMROOM to get 15% off any order. Tumble - Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at tumbleliving.com/MOMROOM #Tumble #adPerelel - New customers can use code MOMROOM and get 20% off your first order at perelelhealth.com/momroom. Merit Beauty - Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.Skims - Shop Everyday Cotton, and all of my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/momroom #skimspartnerFOLLOW RENEE REINA  Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina  TikTok: @thereneereina  Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

April 30th 2026: It started with mould in the fruit drawer… and somehow turned into a full emotional unraveling. 🫠In this solo episode, I’m walking you through the Tuesday meltdown that had nothing to do with fruit and everything to do with the mental load, the build-up, and all the little things we keep pushing down until… we can’t anymore.If you’ve ever felt like you’re “fine” one minute and spiraling the next over something seemingly small, this one’s for you. I’m sorting through what actually triggered it, what’s been weighing on me behind the scenes, and why these moments might be more necessary than we think.Raw, honest, slightly unhinged, but hopefully makes you feel a little less alone in your own “fruit drawer” moments.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Comedian, podcast host, television personality, and DJ in training, Jessi Cruikshank joins The Mom Room this week for a pop culture conversation. Jessi shares stories from her time interviewing celebrities on MTV, and gives a hot take on Taylor Frankie Paul’s Bachelorette season getting cancelled. Renee and Jessi also discuss not wanting to play with their kids, their mutual perspective on sharing one sonic device, and the underrated musical genius that is the Hanson brothers. If you like enjoy bringing out your inner fangirl - this episode is for you! And for the woman and queer community that yearn for a safe space to freely have fun - check out information about Jessi's Evening Club below!FOLLOW JESSIInstagram - @jessicruikshankJessi Cruikshank Evening ClubTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Quince - Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/MOMROOM for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Wayfair - Way Day is THE sale to shop the best deals in home – we’re talking up to 80% OFF with fast and FREE shipping on everything! Head to Wayfair.com April 25th through the 27th to shop Way Day. Little Spoon - Try Little Spoon Formula with their 2 can trial pack (Buy 1, Get 1 free - that’s $30 for 2 cans), which is great if you’re easing into the transition. That’s LittleSpoon.com/TRYFORMULATime4Learning - Curious if Time4Learning is right for your family? Visit time4learning.com to explore their curriculum and find the perfect plan for your student. You can get started with a monthly subscription to see just how much your kids enjoy learning on their own terms.BioOptimizers - If you’re ready to feel more rested, head to https://bioptimizers.com/momroom and use my exclusive code MOMROOM to get 15% off any order. Tumble - Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at tumbleliving.com/MOMROOM #Tumble #adPerelel - New customers can use code MOMROOM and get 20% off your first order at perelelhealth.com/momroom. Merit Beauty - Right now, Merit Beauty is offering our listeners their Signature Makeup Bag with your first order at meritbeauty.com.Skims - Shop Everyday Cotton, and all of my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/momroom #skimspartnerFOLLOW RENEE REINA  Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina  TikTok: @thereneereina  Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

EP597: This week’s solo episode is a little life lately catch-up, and honestly, it’s a good one.I’m recapping our trip to Club Med Miches Playa Esmeralda where we podcasted, pickle-balled our little hearts out, and fully leaned into vacation mode. It was one of those trips that just hits.I also have to talk about my mom, because she absolutely thrived in the Dominican. Like… living her best life, no notes. It inspired her to start sharing more of her life, travels, and this next chapter, and I’m so excited about it. You can follow along with her at @lifewithsusieq (you’re going to love her).We also get into:What I’ve been reading lately (book recs you’ll want to add to your list ASAP)My very humbling return to running… hello sore ankles and groin muscles??And my upcoming trip to Charleston (!!), a place I’ve wanted to visit foreverIt’s chatty, it’s real, it’s a little all over the place, in the best way.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on The Mom Room, Renee is joined by Jessie Inchauspé, aka the Glucose Goddess. Jessie's scientific background has helped her reach a massive audience where she shares through her own personal health journey (mental and physical) how to make informed choices when it comes to nutrition. Jessie explains how her new book, 9 Months That Count Forever, came to be and what she uncovered about the female body by digging into the science. Renee and Jessie discuss how disempowering the classic lines of "avoid cold cuts" and "don't eat sushi" are, and how there's actually so many cool things that pregnant women can add to their nutrition to feel empowered knowing that they are doing what's most optimal for their baby's growth, in utero and in life. Knowledge is power and if you are looking for more information on how to go about nutrition while pregnant, this episode is for you! And if you're wanting more - check out Jessie's book linked below!FOLLOW JESSIEInstagram - @glucosegoddessCheck out her book! - 9 Months That Count ForeverTHANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!Quince - Refresh your spring wardrobe with Quince. Go to Quince.com/MOMROOM for free shipping and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too.Wayfair - Way Day is THE sale to shop the best deals in home – we’re talking up to 80% OFF with fast and FREE shipping on everything! Head to Wayfair.com April 25th through the 27th to shop Way Day. Little Spoon - Try Little Spoon Formula with their 2 can trial pack (Buy 1, Get 1 free - that’s $30 for 2 cans), which is great if you’re easing into the transition. That’s LittleSpoon.com/TRYFORMULATime4Learning - Curious if Time4Learning is right for your family? Visit time4learning.com to explore their curriculum and find the perfect plan for your student. You can get started with a monthly subscription to see just how much your kids enjoy learning on their own terms.BioOptimizers - If you’re ready to feel more rested, head to https://bioptimizers.com/momroom and use my exclusive code MOMROOM to get 15% off any order. Tumble - Machine Washable Rugs, Made Better. For a limited time only, our listeners get 10% off + free shipping at tumbleliving.com/MOMROOM #Tumble #adPerelel - New customers can use code MOMROOM and get 20% off your first order at perelelhealth.com/momroom. Skims - Shop Everyday Cotton, and all of my favorite bras and underwear at http://www.skims.com/momroom #skimspartnerFOLLOW RENEE REINA  Instagram: @themomroom | @thereneereina  TikTok: @thereneereina  Facebook Community - The Mom Room Community YouTube: Renee Reina - The Mom Room PodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.