
Hosted by Brittany Sandoval · EN

In episode 21 of The Odd Mom Pod, Brittany welcomes career coach and mother Victoria Leech to discuss their unique parenting experiences. Brittany provides an update on her foster son's impending adoption, the scheduling changes for the podcast, and the importance of broadening parenting perspectives. The episode delves into Victoria's competitive upbringing, her approach to reparenting, and the challenges of raising a child with type 1 diabetes. They discuss the importance of creating healthy food habits and balanced meals without instilling fear or unhealthy relationships with food in children. Both moms share insights on the value of community, sibling dynamics, and maintaining personal identities outside of parenting. They also highlight various resources, including books, that have aided them in their parenting journeys.References: Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us About the Lost Art of Raising Happy, Helpful Little Humans by Michaeleen DoucleffRosie Becomes a Warrior: A Story to Empower Children with Type 1 Diabetes to Live Their Happiest Lives by Julia FlahertyWhen I Go Low: A Type 1 Diabetes Picture Book by Ginger Vierira00:00 Introduction to The Odd Mom Pod00:40 Life Update and Podcast Schedule Change01:49 Interview with Victoria Leach: Parenting and Career Coaching02:24 Growing Up in a Competitive Household04:24 Sibling Relationships and Parenting Styles07:46 Navigating Parenting Challenges and Medical Conditions21:34 The Role of Stories in Parenting38:34 Resources and Recommendations for Parents41:07 Conclusion and Community SupportBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In episode 20 of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany Sandoval engages in a deep and meaningful conversation with guest Amy Stone, a stepmom, bio mom, and certified life coach. Amy shares her unique upbringing, the challenges faced due to her mother's mental health issues, and the importance of recognizing and addressing childhood experiences in parenting. The episode delves into the nuances of fostering open communication with children, respecting their individuality, and modeling growth and resilience. Amy also provides valuable resources for parents and discusses the complexities of balancing personal and familial needs. Brittany and Amy emphasize the importance of community and continuous learning for parents navigating the often challenging journey of raising children.Resources: Amy's Website: https://amysaysso.com/00:00 Introduction to the Odd Mom Pod00:40 Meet Amy: Stepmom, Bio Mom, and Life Coach01:20 Amy's Childhood and Parental Dynamics04:17 Navigating Parental Relationships and Boundaries07:33 Impact of Childhood Experiences on Parenting12:20 Chasing Accolades and Finding True Fulfillment22:43 Parenting Styles and Real-Life Challenges30:57 Teenage Rebellion and Parental Reactions38:57 Resources and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Britt Sandoval interviews Emma Rowena, an author, musician, intuitive healer, and speaker, about her book 'You, Me, and All That We Are,' which is releasing soon. Emma shares her profound journey through a challenging childhood, dealing with traumas, and how these experiences shaped her into both a mother and a healer. The conversation delves into the importance of felt safety, emotional awareness, and the impact of personal healing on parenting. They discuss strategies for grounding oneself, the significance of authentic self-acceptance, and finding joy amidst life's uncertainties. The episode also highlights the power of play in child development, the importance of humor, and resources that aid personal growth. Emma provides insights into her work and her upcoming book aimed at healing and empowering both parents and their children.Resources: Emma's Website: https://www.emmarowena.no/00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering New Generations00:41 Introducing Emma Rowena: Author, Musician, and Healer01:21 Emma's Journey: From Childhood Trauma to Healing and Motherhood03:05 The Importance of Felt Safety and Self-Protection07:53 Healing and Empowerment: Emma's Path to Self-Discovery11:24 Parenting with Intention: Learning from Our Children16:52 Fostering Creativity and Joy in Children31:27 Finding Joy and Abundance in Parenting and Life38:39 Emma's Book: A Journey from Fear to Empowerment48:15 Closing Thoughts: The Power of Self-Healing and CuriosityBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany interviews Marcus Higgs, a traveling educator and parenting coach, to explore his multicultural upbringing, teaching experiences, and how they have shaped his approach to helping parents and their preteen children. Higgs discusses the importance of identity, collaboration, and expression in aiding preteens through challenging years and introduces his 'SHOW UP' framework for parents to better connect with their children. The conversation covers significant topics, including the influence of social media, the importance of community support in child-rearing, and strategies for fostering a secure attachment between parents and children. Brittany and Higgs also highlight resources and books for further learning, underscoring the shared responsibility of adults to contribute positively to the development of the younger generation.ResourcesMarcus Higgs Website https://marcushiggs.com/Dan Seigel Website: https://drdansiegel.com/00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:46 Special Guest Marcus Higgs: A Traveling Educator's Journey01:19 Marcus's Multicultural Upbringing and Its Impact03:08 The Path to Becoming an Educator and World Traveler05:03 Exploring Identity, Education, and the Power of Travel08:18 The Philosophy of Education and Personal Growth09:31 Focusing on Preteens: The Crucial Stage of Development16:23 Introducing the SHOW UP Framework for Parents23:16 The Importance of Community and Coaching in Parenting29:28 Recommended Resources and Final ThoughtsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In episode 17 of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany chats with Amanda Curry, PT, DPT, a board-certified physical therapist, breathwork facilitator, and somatic coach specializing in inner child work. The episode delves into the impact of inner child work, meditation, and breathwork on parenting journeys. It explores growing-up experiences, the importance of felt safety and emotional expression, and the journey toward healing and empowerment. They discuss the significance of reconnecting with and healing one's inner child, the challenges and revelations encountered, and how this journey transforms parenting, professional life, and personal relationships. Additionally, the conversation covers the necessity of allowing children to express emotions, the concept of somatic work, and the practical applications of inner child healing in daily life. Resources and ways to engage with somatic practices are also shared, emphasizing the individualized nature of healing journeys.Resources: Amanda Curry's Instagram: @thesomaticdptBooks: The Body Keeps Score: Bessel Van Der Kolk, MDThe Untethered Soul: Michael A. SingerThe Five Personality Patterns: Steven KesslerJoin the Odd Mom Pod Discord: https://discord.com/invite/scbPxVxM00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:41 Diving Deep with a Somatic DPT: Inner Child Work and Parenting01:22 Unpacking Childhood: Emotional Safety vs. Material Comfort07:43 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing11:39 Embracing Vulnerability: Parenting and Personal Growth20:41 Navigating Relationships Through Healing and Acceptance26:21 Navigating Personal Growth and Relationships26:58 The Power of Playfulness in Healing27:23 Parenting Insights: Apologies and Emotional Responsibility28:41 Self-Compassion and Understanding Past Actions30:39 Professional Journey: Integrating Somatic and Inner Child Work32:52 Embracing Abundance and Authentic Living38:20 Somatic Work Explained: A Guide for Beginners42:16 Finding Your Somatic Practice: Personal Experiences and Advice45:58 Empowering Parenting: Teaching Emotional Autonomy48:08 Closing Thoughts and ResourcesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

This episode of the Odd Mom Pod, hosted by Brittany, features a deeply personal and informative interview with Heather Hester, founder of Chrysalis Mama and host of the Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ+ Teen podcast. Heather shares her experiences growing up in a religious household, her transition to parenting consciously, and the challenges and triumphs of supporting her son Connor through his coming out as gay. Through their journey, Heather realized the importance of unconditional love, acceptance, and the need for substantial support systems for LGBTQ+ teens and their families. Heather discusses the transformative effect Connor's coming out had on family dynamics, leading her to seek resources, adjust parenting styles, and ensure a safe, supportive environment for Connor and her other children. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating safety, mental health, and identity exploration in the digital age. Heather's forthcoming book, 'Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower, and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen,' aimed at helping parents support their LGBTQ+ children, is previewed. The episode encourages a shift towards accepting and empowering individuality in parenting practices.Resources: Heather's Website: https://chrysalismama.comTrevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:41 Supporting Your LGBTQ+ Teen: A Deep Dive with Heather Hester01:24 Heather's Journey: From Traditional Parenting to Embracing Change04:08 The Evolution of Parenting: Acknowledging Past Generations and Embracing Individuality07:14 Connor's Coming Out: A Family's Journey to Acceptance and Understanding09:03 Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Milestones in LGBTQ+ Parenting24:52 Chrysalis Mama and the Power of Sharing Stories33:20 The Trevor Project: A Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth and Their Families35:47 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Parents of LGBTQ+ TeensBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany interviews Amethysta Herrick, a transgender parent and founder behind 'Gender Identity Today.' Amethysta shares their journey of gender transition, the impact of their coming out on their marriage and parenting, and how their own experience with gender identity has influenced their commitment to being an authentic and understanding parent. The discussion explores the importance of authenticity in parenting, the challenges of raising children in a society with rigid gender expectations, and how understanding and accepting one's identity can lead to more effective and compassionate parenting. Brittany also shares her recent experience of coming out as non-binary and discusses the ripple effect of authenticity on children and society. The episode emphasizes living truthfully for parents and children, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves for a more inclusive and supportive world.00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:50 Special Guest Amethysta Herrick: A Journey of Gender Identity01:22 Amethysta's Childhood and Transition Story02:52 Parenting Perspectives: From Challenges to Commitment04:38 Navigating Marriage and Gender Identity09:15 The Power of Authenticity in Parenting14:27 Brittany's Reflections and Coming Out Story16:00 A Heartfelt Conversation on Gender, Identity, and Acceptance22:20 Creating a Safe Space for Children's Authentic Selves36:46 Resources and Final Thoughts on Authenticity and Parenting41:45 Closing Remarks and GratitudeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany interviews Danielle Lindner, an educator, author, and 'preschool parenting queen', known for her eclectic approach to helping children cope through literature. Danielle shares her upbringing in Morris Plains, New Jersey, emphasizing her childhood's creative, less technologically dependent nature and its contrast to present-day child-rearing. The discussion further delves into the evolution of parenting styles, highlighting the transition from strict, authoritative approaches to more understanding, communicative methods that respect children's autonomy and individuality. Danielle's work, including her 16 children's books and a parenting guide, focuses on equipping kids and parents with tools to address common concerns like separation anxiety and overcoming challenges. The conversation also covers the importance of character education, STEM, and self-worth in early education, alongside the transformative role of parent coaching in providing tailored support and encouraging responsive, informed parenting strategies. Through her initiatives and personal journey, Danielle illustrates the critical shift towards recognizing and nurturing each child's unique strengths and learning styles.Resources:Danielle Lindner's Website: https://daniellelindner.com/00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:38 Meet the Preschool Parenting Queen: Danielle Lindner01:20 Nostalgia Alert: Childhood Before the Digital Age05:14 The Evolution of Discipline and Parenting Styles07:16 Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergent Children11:10 Redefining Success: Embracing Individuality in Children13:52 Building Confidence and Character in Early Education22:50 Danielle's Preschool Program: A Foundation for Future Success27:15 Expanding Impact: From Preschool to Parent Coaching32:07 The Power of Parent Coaching: A Game Changer for Families40:34 Closing Thoughts and Next StepsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany interviews Tessia, a single mother of two from London, to discuss her incredible journey of resilience and self-care despite growing up in adversity. Tessia details her childhood experiences with a chronically ill mother, her decision to become a mother herself, and the subsequent challenges and triumphs of solo parenting. She emphasizes the importance of parental self-care and creating a support system to ensure both parents and children thrive. Tessia also talks about her childcare program, Les Petits Bellots, designed to allow parents, especially stay-at-home moms, to have time for self-care while providing a nurturing environment for their children. The episode highlights Tessia's book, 'Rejuvenated Mums Make Happy Kids,' aimed at helping mothers navigate parenting without losing themselves. Brittany and Tessia discuss the transformative impact of self-care on parenting, advocating for a balanced approach that meets both the parent's and child's needs.00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:37 Celebrating Episode 13 with Tessia: A Story of Resilience01:23 Tessia's Childhood: Overcoming Adversity with a Sick Parent03:44 The Strength of Solo Parenting and Building a Support System06:04 Rediscovering Self-Care and Identity Beyond Motherhood12:44 Creating Liberty Below: A Childcare Solution for Moms15:42 The Journey to Authorship: Sharing the Struggle and Triumph32:29 The Importance of Self-Care and Intuition in Parenting36:55 Wrapping Up: The Power of Community and IntuitionBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.

In this episode of the Odd Mom Pod, host Brittany talks with guest Rahz Slaughter about overcoming childhood adversities, step-parenting, grandparenting, and the power of adopting a growth mindset. Rahz shares his unique upbringing, marred by physical challenges and bullying, and how these experiences shaped his resilient outlook on life. Moving from living with his mother to his grandmother, he highlights the unconventional wisdom and empathy he gained, significantly impacting his approach to parenting and mentoring. The episode delves into the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on family dynamics, emphasizing the importance of intentional connection and the lessons learned from enduring hardships. Rahz, now a step-parent, shares insights into blending families, establishing communication with biological parents, and the significance of recognizing and nurturing each child's unique traits and interests. Additionally, they discuss Rahz's transition from a career in fitness to coaching and writing aimed at empowering teenagers and fostering better parent-teen relationships. The conversation concludes with recommendations for parents to foster emotional intelligence and continuous personal growth, featuring book suggestions and the value of seeking mentorship.ResourcesThe Odd Mom Pod Discord Group- FOUND HERE Rahz's Website: https://www.rahzslaughter.comPermission to Feel by Marc Brackett, Ph.D. https://marcbrackett.com/permission-to-feel/00:00 Welcome to the Odd Mom Pod: Empowering a New Generation00:37 Diving Deep with Rahz Slaughter: Overcoming Adversity and Parenting Insights01:30 Rahz's Unique Childhood and the Power of Resilience03:04 The Impact of Supportive Family and Cultivating Empathy04:37 From Personal Trials to Parenting Triumphs09:20 Navigating the Challenges of Step-Parenting and Building Relationships17:51 Rahz's Journey into Coaching and Empowering Teens25:21 The Importance of Understanding and Nurturing Individuality in Kids29:03 Empower: A Program for Resilient Teens and Their Parents43:05 Concluding Thoughts and Resources for GrowthBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-odd-mom-pod--6007077/support.