Raising a Self-Driven Child with Ned Johnson

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Tara sits down with educator, entrepreneur, and fellow podcast host Jennie Monness for a real talk about the beautifully messy journey of modern motherhood. The two dive into Jennie’s inspiration behind her podcast We Didn't Turn Out Okay, sharing how storytelling can create powerful connections between parents who often feel like they’re figuring it out alone. Together, they explore how listening—with intention and empathy—is one of the most impactful tools in both parenting and podcasting. Jennie opens up about the importance of respecting children's privacy when creating content and how even the smallest personal anecdotes often resonate more deeply than polished parenting advice. They also touch on the emotional intelligence needed to parent in today’s fast-paced world, the pressure moms face on social media, and how building a supportive village truly matters. From toddler tales to visual routine boards, this episode is full of relatable moments and tangible takeaways for parents at any stage. It's a warm, honest reminder that motherhood is a constant evolution—and connection makes the ride smoother.   Tune in and join the conversation—because every story shared is one less mom feeling alone. Links: https://www.instagram.com/jenniemonness/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/1-getting-stuck-on-the-little-things-and-raising-a/id1788590518 https://www.instagram.com/charmspring/ https://www.instagram.com/unionsquareplay/

In this empowering episode, Tara talks with Ned Johnson, co-author of The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives, about how we as parents can step back a little to help our kids step up. They dive into why giving children more autonomy and a real sense of control isn’t just helpful...it’s essential for their mental health and long-term success. Ned shares how shifting from being a “controller” to more of a “consultant” can build trust, resilience, and confidence in our kids, especially during the tricky teenage years. They also touch on the weight so many moms carry, feeling responsible for every outcome, and how taking a calmer, less anxious approach can actually create more connection. This conversation is full of real talk, relatable stories, and gentle reminders that letting our kids make mistakes is part of the journey, and that we’re doing better than we think. Links: https://theselfdrivenchild.com/

In this episode, Tara chats with author, coach, and doula Jessie Harrold about the deep, often overlooked transition into motherhood, matrescence. Far beyond just the physical experience of having a baby, matrescence is a major life transformation that unfolds over two to three years, reshaping a mother’s body, mind, and identity. Together, they explore the emotional layers of motherhood: the feeling of "losing yourself," the natural grief that can come with identity shifts, and why it’s so important to give space for those feelings. Jessie shares insights from her book Mother Shift, as well as thoughts on the fourth trimester, the push-pull of career changes, and the evolving cultural conversations around what it means to be a mom today. This episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood isn’t just a role. It’s a metamorphosis. Tune in and give yourself the permission to grieve, grow, and embrace the beautiful mess of modern motherhood. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a fellow mama who might need to hear it! Links: https://www.jessieharrold.com/ https://www.jessieharrold.com/mothershiftbook/ https://www.jessieharrold.com/

In this inspiring episode, Tara chats with writer and writing coach Leigh Shulman about what it really means to carve out creative space as a mother. Together, they dive into the realities of writing while raising kids—navigating perfectionism, embracing messy drafts, and learning to trust the process. Leigh reminds us that writing doesn’t have to be perfect to be powerful, and sometimes, just five minutes a day is enough to spark something meaningful. They explore how motherhood and creativity often go hand in hand and how community plays a crucial role in helping women feel confident enough to share their stories. From overcoming creative blocks to the magic that happens in the editing process, this episode is a gentle nudge to let go of the pressure and just begin—no matter where you are in your writing journey. Whether you're journaling for yourself or dreaming of publishing something big, this conversation is packed with encouraging wisdom for moms who have something to say but aren’t quite sure where to start. Tune in and be reminded: your story matters. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a mom friend who might need the creative boost! Links: https://leighshulman.com/ https://www.instagram.com/theleighshulman/

In this heartfelt episode, Tara sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Rachel Goldman to have an honest conversation about body image, self-talk, and the stories we tell ourselves when we look in the mirror. Together, they explore how long-standing societal pressures and internalized beliefs can distort how we see our bodies—and how those “mirror lies” can affect our mental health. They dive into the impact of toxic positivity, the power of body neutrality, and the importance of practicing gratitude for what our bodies do rather than how they look. From shifting our mindset to making wardrobe changes that boost confidence, this episode is packed with thoughtful takeaways to help listeners feel more at peace in their own skin. Whether it's adjusting to a life change, challenging negative self-talk, or simply learning to say, "I'm okay as I am," this conversation reminds moms that they’re not alone—and that confidence starts from within. Tune in and share with a friend who could use a little body kindness today! Links: https://www.instagram.com/drrachelnyc/ https://www.drrachelnyc.com https://www.drrachelnyc.com/ https://www.drrachelnyc.com/

In this heartfelt episode, Tara sits down with DJ Envy and Gia Casey to talk about what it really takes to build a strong family foundation in today’s world. As parents of six and authors of Real Life, Real Family, Gia and Envy share the ups and downs of their parenting journey, and how their styles have evolved over the years, what it means to create a family mission statement, and why trust, communication, and intentionality are at the core of everything they do. They open up about breaking generational cycles, navigating social media as a modern family, and how they work to make their home a safe, loving space where every child feels seen and heard. This conversation is full of wisdom, love, and reminders that while parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all, showing up with purpose and care makes all the difference. Links: https://amzn.to/4deuBEl

In this episode, Tara sits down with Jessica N. Turner, content creator and author of the new book "I Thought It Would Be Better Than This: Rise From Disappointment, Regain Control, and Rebuild a Life You Love" to explore her powerful journey through divorce, co-parenting, and personal healing after her husband came out during the pandemic. Jessica opens up about the emotional weight of grief, the importance of self-worth, and how she’s learning to rebuild life on her own terms. Her honest reflections offer encouragement for any mom navigating unexpected life changes, reminding us that healing is possible and that even when life doesn’t go as planned, it can still be beautiful. Listen now and share with a friend who needs to hear this story. Links: https://jessicanturner.com/ https://amzn.to/3Zhz57d

In this episode, Tara sits down with Myriam Sandler, the creative mind behind Mothercould, to talk all things play—how to create spaces that invite imagination, encourage independence, and actually work for your home and your sanity. Myriam opens up about her motherhood journey, including the struggles with picky eating and how sensory play became a game changer. She shares smart, realistic tips like toy rotation and involving kids in organizing their own spaces to build independence. They also dive into the beauty of boredom, the messiness of play, and how social media has reshaped the way we parent. Whether you’re overwhelmed by toys or just trying to get your toddler to play solo for more than two minutes, this episode is full of thoughtful, doable ways to make playtime a little less chaotic and a lot more fun. Links: https://www.mothercould.com/ https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-celebrate/playful-by-design/

In this heartfelt episode, Tara sits down with Karen Johnson, writer and creator of The 21st Century SAHM to talk about that big, emotional question so many moms face: What do I want to be when they grow up? Karen opens up about her own shift from stay-at-home mom to navigating the ups and downs of raising teens, and how that inspired her latest book. They talk about the loneliness that can sneak in during the middle school years, the guilt that seems to tag along with motherhood, and how friendships can be the glue that holds us together. From tech’s role in kids’ social lives to the quiet moments of self-reflection all moms need, this conversation is a reminder that we’re not alone...and that it’s okay to dream about what’s next for you, even while you're still in the thick of parenting. Links: https://www.the21stcenturysahm.com/ https://www.facebook.com/21stcenturysahm/

In this episode, Tara chats with Danielle Elliot, podcast host of Climbing the Walls, about what it’s really like parenting with ADHD—especially when you’re a mom who wasn’t diagnosed until adulthood. Danielle shares her journey of navigating a late diagnosis, the impact it’s had on her relationships, work, and motherhood, and how the pandemic played a role in the recent surge of ADHD awareness. They talk about everything from fertility struggles and postpartum anxiety to the overwhelming expectations modern moms face, like being constantly “on” for everyone. Danielle opens up about the systems and self-care routines that help her manage ADHD, the importance of understanding rejection sensitivity, and how hormonal shifts can make symptoms even trickier to handle. This conversation is a reminder that ADHD looks different in women, and with more awareness, resources, and grace, moms can feel less alone—and more empowered. Links: https://www.understood.org/en/podcasts/climbing-the-walls